A group experience with chronically disabled adolescents.
The author describes his experiences as the leader of a therapy group for adolescents with muscular dystrophy. The group progressed through discernible stages of dependence-flight, independence, regression, interdependence, disenchantment, and resolution. By the end of the experience, the group had developed more meaningful communication and interrelationships than they had exhibited previously. The author suggests that such groups could be helpful for other chronically disabled adolescents.
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000293:Adolescent; D001294:Attitude to Health; D003674:Defense Mechanisms; D006233:Persons with Disabilities; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009136:Muscular Dystrophies / Q000628:therapy*; D011615:Psychotherapy, Group