A survey of self-help groups in California for parents of children with chronic conditions.
OBJECTIVE
To gather information on the descriptive characteristics and function of self-help groups for parents of children with chronic conditions.


METHODS
Thirty-two self-help groups for parents of children with chronic conditions were surveyed by telephone interview with the contact person from each group. Content analysis of the data was done.


RESULTS
The majority (70%) have been in existence less than 6 years, and most were crisis oriented in purpose. Although functions of the groups were multifaceted, the majority (72%) were concerned with providing emotional support to parents.


CONCLUSIONS
There is a gap between services currently available for parents and what is purported in the literature as necessary to promote optimal long-term outcomes.
Betz
C L
CL
Unger
O A
OA
Frager
B
B
Test
L
L
Smith
C
C
D000328:Adult; D002140:California; D002648:Child; D002908:Chronic Disease / Q000451:nursing*; D006701:Home Nursing; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D012657:Self-Help Groups; D012944:Social Support