Online grief support groups: facilitators' attitudes

Death Stud. 2014 Jul-Dec;38(6-10):517-21. doi: 10.1080/07481187.2013.873840. Epub 2014 May 21.

Abstract

Although bereaved individuals report positive experiences from participating in online support groups, little is known from a facilitator perspective. Using a web-based survey, data was collected from a national sample of grief facilitators (N = 64). Respondents reported more favorable attitudes toward in-person groups over online and indicated a low likelihood of facilitating an online group in the next year. However, 62% of the sample (n = 37) reported willingness to refer to online groups. This attitude may reflect facilitator acknowledgment of the need to increase the presence and availability of grief services; a need that bereaved individuals' express, as shown in previous research.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Attitude to Death*
  • Female
  • Grief*
  • Group Processes*
  • Humans
  • Internet / statistics & numerical data*
  • Leadership*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Professional Role*
  • Self-Help Groups / statistics & numerical data*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Young Adult