Bereavement Support Groups: Timing of Participation and Reasons for Joining

This study investigated the experiences of a small group of people who had participated in professionally led bereavement support groups, with particular emphasis on perceptions of the appropriate timing for initial involvement with a group & the reasons for joining. The results support the need for timely group-based bereavement support. Findings suggest that group interventions are helpful to target individual circumstances, needs, & reactions throughout the process of mourning, & offer direction for future research. (24 refs)