Users' Views of a Group Therapy Intervention for Chronically Ill or Disabled Children and Their Parents: Towards a Meaningful Assessment of Therapeutic Effectiveness

Abstract

This article describes users' views of a brief group therapy intervention for children with chronic illness or disability, together with a parallel group for parents. The aims of the intervention were to reduce feelings of isolation and facilitate coping. Users' views about research methods were also sought to inform the design of subsequent evaluation of effectiveness and the potential for long-term benefit. Grounded theory methodology was used and 27 participants were interviewed from 11 of the 17 families eligible to take part. A model emerged, which suggested that parents and children brought to the group common and specific difficulties. The benefits people described related to their perceived reasons for attending even if these were different from the therapist's overall aims. There was evidence of increased social support and range of coping responses. Participants gave constructive criticism of the group and articulated their views about acceptable research methods. They emphasized the need for research to value and respect the views of participants. This study suggests that this is a promising intervention being both acceptable and helpful and warrants a more extensive evaluation, which takes into account participants' preference for face-to-face interviews and is respectful and valuing of their perspective.