SUPPORTED EDUCATION - A QUALITATIVE STUDY OF THE STUDENT EXPERIENCE

This study presents a qualitative exploration and analysis of the expe rience students had participating in college level, campus based educa tional programs with the assistance of a clubhouse based ''mobile'' su pported education program. The study offers an analysis of responses t o a structured interview schedule provided by 26 former and current st udents of the program during a series of focus groups at the clubhouse . The study presents findings regarding the dilemma faced by students who must choose discretion in disclosing information about their past psychiatric backgrounds, the nature of ''support'' in supported educat ion, and the role of those who provide that support. The study conclud es that students' perceptions of stigma on campus become a significant source of anxiety and concern. The fear of being labeled ''mentally i ll'' by others persists on campus despite a very accepting and helpful attitude by students, teachers and other campus support staff. In add ition, the nature of support and the role of the support givers descri bed by students suggest that the students' primary group relationships (e,g., friends, other students, other program members), are crucial a spects of their support both on and of campus.