EFFECTS OF PARTICIPATION IN A SELF-HELP GROUP FOR BEREAVED PARENTS:

Results of a panel survey study of bereaved parents are reported. Member and nonmember groups, reflecting increasing levels of involvement in Compassionate Friends, are compared for trends in changes in depression and personal growth. While no differences in depression were detected, a linear trend was evidenced in personal growth. Those parents who were most involved in the group were more likely to maintain a sense of positive personal change over the one year time span of the study. Reasons for the specific impact of self help group involvement are discussed.