SELF-HELP SUPPORT GROUPS AND ISSUES IN RESEARCH

ANN DADICH


DOI: 10.2190/PLM4-RBNN-5EY0-8XQN

Abstract

Despite the potential benefits of research, Self-Help Support Groups (SHSGs) pose an interesting challenge to researchers. There can be ethical dilemmas in examining a particular research question, while attempting to work within a self-help ethos that endorses particular practices. These challenges can be found in research involving group participants who experience mental health issues. This is explored in the following article, with reference to a recent study into the group experiences of young people with mental health issues. The article does not offer concrete solutions to these difficulties, lest the discussion be prematurely closed. Rather, it encourages debate on ethical matters in SHSG research so as to improve future investigations.

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