A study was conducted to evaluate the development of a computer-mediated support group (CMSG) intervention for parents whose children had been diagnosed with cancer in Iceland. The study’s theoretical and conceptual framework was based on literature on vulnerability and mutual support. A one group before-and-after design was used. The CMSG, an unstructured e-mail group was conducted over a four-month period. The CMSG was offered to parents whose children had completed cancer treatment and were within five years of treatment completion. Outcome measures were: pre-intervention (T1), two months post-intervention (T2), and four months post-intervention (T3), and included: demographic and background variables; health related vulnerability factors of parents: anxiety, depression, somatization, and stress; perceived mutual support; and use of the CMSG. Twenty-one parents participated in the study. No significant relationships were identified between participation and demographic variables (p£ .05). The total mean score of each of the health related outcomes decreased from T1 to T3 for both genders. Mothers’ depression decreased significantly from T2 to T3 (p<.03). Fathers’ anxiety decreased significantly from T1 to T3 (p<.01). Fathers’ stress decreased significantly from T2 to T3 (p<.02). To an extent, parents perceived mutual support from participating in the CMSG. Mothers used the CMSG by reading and writing messages. Fathers primarily read messages. Fort both genders, use of the CMSG decreased from T2 to T3. Findings indicate that parents may benefit from a CMSG. Gender difference was detected in outcomes. Findings support further development and research on support group interventions for advancing family health and well-being.
Session #1051 - Advancing Family Health Following The NIH Road Map
The 29th Annual MNRS Research Conference (April 1-4, 2005)