Citation

Sanford RL, Cerel J, Frey LM. Soc. Work With Groups 2018; 41(4): 306-322.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2018, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/01609513.2017.1351414

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Suicide is a major public health issue affecting countless people each year worldwide. Support groups are one of the few resources available to survivors of suicide loss to aid the healing journey. This study examined differences among support group facilitators based on status as a peer, professional, or peer/professional. Differences emerged among the facilitator types, particularly on attitudes of group effectiveness, the role of sharing stories in the group, when loss survivors should attend, and who should facilitate groups. The results provide important insights about group facilitation differences, though further research is necessary to understand effective approaches. A degree in social work was the most common educational background for facilitators who identified as professionals. As social workers often facilitate groups or work alongside peers in the provision of support groups across a variety of areas, the findings provide insights regarding facilitation differences to which social workers may need to attend. © 2018, © 2018 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.

Language: en

Keywords

grief; support group; suicide bereavement; facilitation; Mutual aid