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Befriending for mental health problems: Processes of helping
Author(s) -
Mitchell Gemma,
Pistrang Nancy
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
psychology and psychotherapy: theory, research and practice
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.102
H-Index - 62
eISSN - 2044-8341
pISSN - 1476-0835
DOI - 10.1348/147608310x508566
Subject(s) - mental health , psychology , thematic analysis , interpersonal relationship , empathy , set (abstract data type) , meaning (existential) , negotiation , social psychology , qualitative research , interpersonal communication , social relationship , developmental psychology , psychotherapist , sociology , social science , computer science , programming language
Background. One avenue for addressing the social consequences of mental health problems is through befriending, a supportive relationship in which one‐to‐one companionship is provided on a regular basis. Although there is some evidence that befriending can improve psychological and social functioning, little is known about how it works. Objective. This qualitative study aimed to understand the helping processes occurring in befriending relationships, from the perspectives of both befriendees and befrienders. Method. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted individually and jointly with eight befriendees and their corresponding befrienders. Thematic analysis was carried out on the data set of 23 interviews. Results. The analysis generated nine themes concerning qualities of the relationship valued by befriendees and befrienders (e.g., empathy and mutuality), processes of making meaning (e.g., considering alternative perspectives), and how change was effected in befriendees' lives (e.g., learning how to have healthier relationships with others). The accounts emphasized the importance of the quality of the relationship itself, and highlighted aspects of the relationship that were sometimes difficult to negotiate. Conclusions. The findings suggest that befriending shares commonalities with other types of psychological help. However, it is also characterized by some particular challenges, such as establishing an empathic relationship and managing boundaries and endings.