title: An inflammatory bowel disease support group for teens and their parents.
abstract: In this article, the authors describe the steps in the development of a Crohn and colitis support group for teenagers age 11-18 years and their parents. The use of support groups has been described in the literature as a method of assisting families in dealing with the challenges of chronic illness. The Crohn's Disease and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) Self-Help Support Group design was modified to address the developmental needs of teens. Nine families agreed to attend six support group sessions (first hour: for education; second hour: for support). A survey at the end of the sessions indicated that the teens and their parents had more positive attitudes towards Inflammatory Bowel Disease as a result of their participation in the support group. The design for a support group for teens and families with Inflammatory Bowel Disease is a model applicable to other types of healthcare support groups.
authors.forename: L F
authors.initials: LF
authors.lastname: Takacs
authors.forename: C E
authors.initials: CE
authors.lastname: Kollman
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D001294:Attitude to Health; D002648:Child; D006801:Humans; D015212:Inflammatory Bowel Diseases / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D010290:Parents / Q000523:psychology*; D015397:Program Evaluation; D000297:Psychology, Adolescent; D012657:Self-Help Groups / Q000458:organization & administration*