Therapeutic Factors

Abstract

Computer-mediated support groups are increasing in number. It is not known, however, whether computer support groups provide the same therapeutic factors as face-to-face groups. A pilot study of a computer support group for six women with breast cancer investigated the presence of Yalom's (1970) therapeutic factors of installation of hope, universality, group cohesion, catharsis and altruism. Results of the pilot indicate that participants in the computer group perceive these therapeutic factors to be present with the factors of instillation of hope, group cohesion, and universality viewed as most prevalent as well as non-significantly but nonetheless, moderately correlated with group members' perceptions of the overall helpfulness of the group. Surprisingly, altruism was unrelated to helpfulness. Data are discussed in terms of member's disease stage and recommendations for further research.