Perceptions of self-help groups for child sexual abuse survivors : an exploratory study amongst mental health workers

This explorative, qualitative study examines the perceptions of mental health workers about self-help groups with adult survivors of child sexual abuse. Given limited formal mental health services in South Africa, self-help represents one informal alternative which could supplement mental health service provision. The study thus arises from a perspective which values self-help groups and is informed by the urgency of community needs in this area, and takes seriously the idea that it is possible and desirable for mental health care workers to facilitate and foster community support systems. Twenty-two indepth interviews were conducted with a sample of convenience which included eleven clinical psychologists, five psychiatrists, three social workers and three non-professionals and included interviewees from organizations currently engaged in issues relating to child sexual abuse. A semi-structured interview schedule was used and interviews were audio-taped. Interview responses were systematically analysed and common themes extracted around awareness of self-help, perceived benefits and problems of survivor self-help groups and the role of professionals. Main themes have been illustrated by verbatim transcriptions from audiotaped material. Most participants have had limited exposure to self-help groups. Whilst there was openness towards self-help with survivors, caution was expressed about dangers to clients in survivor groups which are not monitored by formally trained and accredited professionals. Selfhelp was considered useful mainly as an adjunct to formal services. Limited knowledge of self-help groups is a major determining factor informing professional perceptions. Recommendations for education of professionals are made in order to promote self-help groups and collaborative professional attitudes.

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

Department of Psychology

Year dc:date.issued

1993

Author dc:creator

• Leon, Natalie H

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Levett, Ann

Language dc:language.iso

eng

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/11427/13483

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:open.uct.ac.za:11427/13483