An analysis of interaction in a self-help group

The interaction process was studied intensively in a self-help group - Recovery, Inc. - and analyzed using concepts of symbolic- interaction theory. Group meetings were observed following which eleven leaders and ten assistant leaders were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. Some insights were gained from the study. Members tend to use the group over long periods of times to confirm their view of mental health. Participants are chiefly those with histories of mental disorders and emotional problems although there are others who have not had professional care. Members are more concerned with obtaining relief from emotional symptoms than with understanding underlying reasons for these symptoms. Some of the values stressed by Recovery, Inc. are adopted by the members such as that of self control which is preferred to expression of feeling. Insofar as these values are accepted Recovery becomes the basis for social control of the member.