Abstract

This study investigated the success of a Focused Support Group (FSG) model in maintaining black women in self-help groups and reducing stress over a six-month period. Respondents participated in a five week Focused Support Group led by professional staff. Six months later they were administered a questionnaire to determine the usefulness of that model in alleviating work related stresses and maintaining the participants in self-help groups. Questionnaires examined self-reported changes in stress, support networks and the influence of group leadership characteristics on group continuation. Results indicated that those black women who remained in self-help groups after six months reported a continued lowered level of stress, an increase in sources of emotional support and a general increase in the quality of interpersonal relationships. Respondents who did not continue in self-help groups were characterized by a desire for mental health services, involvement in relationships and saw time conflicts as the primary factor for not continuing. Implications for service utilization patterns by particular subgroups of black women are discussed.