Interpersonal Methods for Coping with Stress: Helping Families of Dying Children

Abstract

An attempt to establish a self-help network based on shared peer-counseling for families of dying children in a Midwest teaching hospital is described and evaluated. The structure of the group meeting is delineated in terms of environment, didactic presentations, and the practice of peer-counseling. Recommendations for any future attempts are given. The program is an attempt to use professionals to assist ordinary persons in distress to help and counsel each other.