The Capacity for Emotional Growth

As the AIDS epidemic continues to spread throughout Australia, the incidence of infection is moving from the major risk group of middle-aged gay men to involve bisexual men, women, and youth. Because of their age, the latter group has unique problems lacking formal legal and social recognition and access to established institutions. The Albion Street Centre, a screening clinic for the AIDS virus, provides medical management and psychosocial services to infected youth. A major component of the psychosocial facilities is an emotional support group. This article reviews the literature relating to support groups and suggests why this therapeutic approach is especially useful for youth who have come into contact with the AIDS virus. The nature of the support group is detailed with particular reference to important issues and suggestions made for future developments during its operation.