Date of Award
5-2023
Document Type
Project
Degree Name
Master of Social Work
Department
School of Social Work
First Reader/Committee Chair
Lim, Caroline
Abstract
Four members of a peer-support group that focuses on experiences of auditory and visual hallucinations participated in interviews to explore ways that support groups benefit this population. The researcher had special interest in the domains of reduction of discomfort, reduction of stigma, and increase of functioning. This qualitative study used thematic coding to analyze interview data. Regarding the ways that participation in the support group benefits members, eight themes were identified: the group providing a safe space, growth in communication skills, meeting belongingness needs, participation increasing euthymia, increased ability to cope with symptoms, normalization of people experiencing hallucinations, addressing stigma surrounding hallucinations, and increased hopefulness among group participants. Social workers and mental health professionals are invited to re-examine their personal biases regarding audio and visual hallucinations and consider treatment options beyond the medication-first paradigm prevalent today.
Recommended Citation
Stewart, Joseph, "THE BENEFITS OF SUPPORT GROUPS FOR INDIVIDUALS WHO EXPERIENCE AUDITORY AND VISUAL HALLUCINATIONS" (2023). Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations. 1732.
https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/etd/1732