Peer Support Relationships: An Unexplored Interpersonal Process in Mental Health

Authors

R. Coatsworth-Puspoky, St. Joseph's Health Care, London, ON
C. Forchuk, University of Western OntarioFollow
C. Ward-Griffin, University of Western OntarioFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

10-2006

Journal

Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing

Volume

13

Issue

5

First Page

490

Last Page

497

Abstract

Consumer-survivors (C/Ss) identify peer support as a resource that facilitates their recovery. However, little is known about the factors that influence or how the peer support relationship (PSR) develops/deteriorates. The purpose of the study was to explore and describe the PSR within the subculture of mental health. Using an ethnonursing method, the study focused on informants from two C/S organizations who received peer support (n = 14). Findings revealed that the PSRs may develop or deteriorate through three, overlapping phases. Contextual factors that influenced the development/deterioration of the PSR are discussed. Understanding the processes and factors that contribute to the development/deterioration of PSRs will enable clinicians and C/Ss to assess and promote the development of healthy, supportive PSRs in mental health.

Notes

Published in: Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, Volume 13 Issue 5, Pages 490 - 497. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2850.2006.00970.x