Purpose: To gather information on the descriptive characteristics and function of self-help groups for parents of children with chronic conditions.
Method: Thirty-two self-help groups for parents of children with chronic conditions were surveyed by telephone interview with the contact person from each group. Content analysis of the data was done.
Results: The majority (70%) have been in existence less than 6 years, and most were crisis oriented in purpose. Although functions of the groups were multifaceted, the majority (72%) were concerned with providing emotional support to parents.
Conclusion: There is a gap between services currently available for parents and what is purported in the literature as necessary to promote optimal long-term outcomes.