The gains and pains of being a cancer support group leader : a qualitative survey of rewards and challenges

Phyllis Butow, Linda Beeney, Ilona Juraskova, Jane Ussher, Rachel Zordan

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticle

    2 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    Rewards derived from leading a cancer support group are poorly understood yet may be crucial to offset the challenges and difficulties of this role. This study sought to obtain the views of a representative sample of Australian cancer support group leaders (CSGLs) concerning the perceived rewards and challenges of their role. All CSGLs identified by the state-based Cancer Councils were invited to participate by postal questionnaire. Qualitative methods were used to analyze responses to open-ended questions concerning rewards and challenges. A total of 300 CSGLs returned the questionnaire (response rate = 66%) with 272 providing qualitative comments. Four parallel themes emerged from the qualitative analysis: (i) Personal, (ii) Relationship, (iii) Group, and (iv) Community rewards and challenges. These were integrated into a model depicting key positive and negative aspects of the CSGL's role, to provide direction for future training and ongoing support of CSGLs.
    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)750-767
    Number of pages18
    JournalSocial work in Health Care
    Volume48
    Issue number8
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 2009

    Keywords

    • cancer
    • interpersonal relations
    • leadership
    • reward (psychology)
    • self-help groups
    • stress (psychology)

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