Article

The aim was to examine stroke patients', carers' and volunteer
supporters' experiences of peer support groups during hospital rehabilitation.
METHODS: Semi-structured interviews and questionnaires were analysed by inductive
thematic analysis. Participants also answered a standardised Therapeutic Factors
Inventory (TFI). RESULTS: Five superordinate themes emerged for patients, carers
and volunteer supporters. Three themes related to group processes; 'practical
issues' (five subthemes), 'staff presence', 'similarity-difference', and
comparison with other group members. 'Value of peers' (five subthemes) described
beneficial outcomes. The 'similarity-difference' theme and four subthemes under
'value of peers' were related to items from the TFI which drew agreement from
most participants. The supporters had some unique themes; two were concerned with
group organisation, one was the experience of 'being helpful to others' and one
described the experiences of training. As well as its links with themes,
agreement with TFI items revealed experiences that did not emerge as themes;
feeling secure, expressing emotions and increased independence. CONCLUSIONS:
Participation in the group was experienced as beneficial by participants.
Benefits included helpful information, advice, making new connections and
increased awareness of stroke. Participants identified important group processes
such as upward and downward comparison. Responses to the TFI suggested that
attendance brought therapeutic gains.

Langue : ANGLAIS