Brain tumor support group: content themes and mechanisms of support.
OBJECTIVE
To describe the experiences and needs of patients with brain tumors as evidenced in analysis of themes from support group discussions and to increase knowledge of supportive mechanisms operant in support groups for medically vulnerable populations.


METHODS
Descriptive, exploratory.


METHODS
An urban medical center on the U.S. West Coast.


METHODS
Participants in a brain tumor support group, including patients, families, friends, and facilitators.


METHODS
Researchers analyzed observational field notes and videotapes of a brain tumor support group's meetings over a six-month period using grounded theory methods to develop inclusive conceptual categories of themes and to document mechanisms of support.


RESULTS
Five thematic categories emerged: telling the story, managing medical advice, seeking and exchanging information, the long haul, and family life changes. Two major categories of supportive mechanisms emerged: finding a safe haven and maintaining morale, each of which contained several contributing dimensions.


METHODS
Discussion topics, dialogue, and interaction among participants during the support group meetings.


CONCLUSIONS
The support group provided a specific therapeutic forum for patients with brain tumors and their families, especially regarding the difficulties of survival and maintaining quality of life after initial treatment.


CONCLUSIONS
Findings generated knowledge that can guide patient care, particularly follow-up care after initial treatment. Support group facilitation by expert nurse clinicians can provide health-care guidance and emotional support to medically vulnerable patients and their families through symptom assessment and management, timely referral, therapeutic group process, promotion of self-care, and adaptive coping.
Leavitt
M B
MB
Department of Family Health Care, School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, USA.
Lamb
S A
SA
Voss
B S
BS
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D001932:Brain Neoplasms / Q000451:nursing / Q000523:psychology*; D005190:Family / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D008016:Life Change Events; D008297:Male; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D009937:Organizational Objectives; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D012657:Self-Help Groups / Q000458:organization & administration*; D012944:Social Support