Functions of a breast cancer support group as perceived by the participants: an ethnographic study.

The purpose of this study was to obtain an understanding of the functions of a breast cancer support group as perceived by the participants. An ethnographic method of research was used. Data were collected by participant observation and tape-recorded interviews during the weekly support group meetings. The convenience sample included one professional group leader and 15 women diagnosed with breast cancer within a range of 2 weeks to 7 years. Two key informants were chosen to clarify and validate data. Content analysis was performed on the data obtained from the tape recordings of 10 group meetings and from the two key informant interviews. Three categories of functions of the breast cancer support group emerged from the data analysis, including exchanging information, sharing the illness experience, and providing strength. As the incidence rate of breast cancer continues to increase, it is imperative that nurses recognize the physical and psychological reactions to breast cancer and identify sources of social support for women. Nurses should be cognizant of the functions of a breast cancer support group in order to share this information with women and encourage them to actively participate with others sharing the same experience.