PROFESSIONAL-LED VERSUS FAMILY-LED SUPPORT GROUPS - EXPLORING THE DIFFERENCES

Support groups often help families cope more effectively with relative s' mental illnesses. This study examines the differences between suppo rt groups led by professionals and those led by family members, focusi ng specifically on group participation benefits and group content. Res ults indicate that participants of both professional and family-led gr oups reported that the groups provided them with needed information ab out mental illness and its treatment and that the groups improved thei r relationships with their ill relatives. Professional-led groups plac ed a greater emphasis on the relatives 'problems and coping with emoti ons, and family-led groups placed a greater emphasis on advocacy. Sugg estions are provided regarding increased collaboration between profess ional and family-led support groups.