title: The gains and pains of being a cancer support group leader: a qualitative survey of rewards and challenges.
abstract: Rewards derived from leading a cancer support group are poorly understood yet may be crucial to offset the challenges and difficulties of this role. This study sought to obtain the views of a representative sample of Australian cancer support group leaders (CSGLs) concerning the perceived rewards and challenges of their role. All CSGLs identified by the state-based Cancer Councils were invited to participate by postal questionnaire. Qualitative methods were used to analyze responses to open-ended questions concerning rewards and challenges. A total of 300 CSGLs returned the questionnaire (response rate = 66%) with 272 providing qualitative comments. Four parallel themes emerged from the qualitative analysis: (i) Personal, (ii) Relationship, (iii) Group, and (iv) Community rewards and challenges. These were integrated into a model depicting key positive and negative aspects of the CSGL's role, to provide direction for future training and ongoing support of CSGLs.
authors.affiliation: Centre for Medical Psychology and Evidence-Based Decision-Making, School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia. phyllisb@psych.usyd.edu.au
authors.forename: Phyllis
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Butow
authors.forename: Linda
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Beeney
authors.forename: Ilona
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Juraskova
authors.forename: Jane
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Ussher
authors.forename: Rachel
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Zordan
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D006126:Group Processes; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D007588:Job Satisfaction; D007857:Leadership; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009369:Neoplasms; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012657:Self-Help Groups / Q000458:organization & administration*; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors