UTILIZING EFFECTIVE GROUP MODELS FOR PROSTATE-CANCER PATIENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES

Support groups for patients with cancer have been shown to be an effec tive modality in helping patients and families cope with the stresses inherent in diagnosis and treatment. All groups seek to foster an incr eased sense of control and mastery, although they may vary in style an d content. They may be psychological, educational, or psychoeducationa l, They can be professionally led, peer led, or cofacilitated. Groups may also be open ended or time limited. An informal peer-oriented form at or group psychotherapy model may be followed. The various formats a re useful, because patients and family members have specific needs bas ed on unique styles of coping. These various group formats as well as their objectives, goals, and usefulness are explored. The effect that group support has on quality of life, including reduction of anxiety a nd depression, is discussed. Primary focus is on the ''Us Too'' progra m. The authors have coordinated a very successful chapter of this prof essionally cofacilitated psychoeducational peer support program at Mem orial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.