Journal Facts

Journal
International Journal of Self-Help and Self-Care
ISSN
1091-2851 (print) 1541-4450 (electronic)
Volume
1
Issue
4
Date
1/1/2001

Article Facts

Title
THE DEVELOPMENT OF SELF-HELP GROUPS AND SUPPORT FOR THEM IN GERMANY
DOI
10.2190/9RVD-KPEC-M8PF-DDQN
Author
JÜRGEN MATZAT
Pages
307-322
Online Date
10/02/2002

Article Links

THE DEVELOPMENT OF SELF-HELP GROUPS AND SUPPORT FOR THEM IN GERMANY

JÜRGEN MATZAT

DOI: 10.2190/9RVD-KPEC-M8PF-DDQN

Abstract

This article gives a broad overview over the development of self-help groups and support for them in Germany. Historic and political contexts of the German health and welfare systems are given. Reflecting the professional discussion in Germany, a basic typology of self-help groupings is suggested by definitions of anonymous groups, larger self-help organizations, and small self-help groups. The relationship between professional helpers and self-helpers, the remarkable change in attitudes over the last decades, are described in historic phases. The "Kontaktstelle fr Selbsthilfegruppen" (self-help advice center), a widespread professional approach in Germany for promoting and supporting self-help groups, is presented. The latest development in German politics is reported, which leads to a strong commitment of sick funds to support self-help substantially. The article closes with a prospective view of possible further developments on Germany's self-help scene.

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