66th Annual Conference

Thursday, February 19

Early Bird Open Sessions

7:15-8:15 A.M.

Session 207

A Look at Drop-in and On-line Groups for Men with Prostate Cancer

and their Significant Others

Presenters:   

Wendy A. Lebowitz, Ph.D., M.P.H., CGP, Senior Psychologist, Interfaith Medical Center, Malecare, Inc., Brooklyn, New York

Joel T. Nowak, M.S.W., M.A., Director, Advanced Prostate Cancer Programs, Malecare, Inc., Brooklyn, New York

This session will discuss the current state of diagnosis and treatment for prostate cancer and the important adaptational challenges experienced by the patient and his family. We will explore how on-line and real-life support groups can address these issues and offer assistance.

Learning Objectives:

The attendee will be able to:

1. Identify and address basic issues and conflicts experienced by patients undergoing diagnosis and treatment for prostate cancer.

2. Identify and address some issues and conflicts experienced by family members of prostate cancer patients.

3. Compare the usefulness of on-line and drop-in groups for prostate cancer survivors and their significant others.

Course References:

1. Krizek C., Roberts C., Ragan R., Ferrara J.J., Lord B.,  Gender and cancer support group participation. Cancer Practice, Mar - April 1999, 7(2), 86-92.

2. Davison K.P., Pennebaker J.W., Dickerson S.S.  Who talks? The social psychology of illness support groups.  American Psychologist. Feb 2000, 55(2): 205 - 17.

3. Rozmovits L., Ziebland S. What do patients with prostate or breast cancer want from an Internet site? A qualitative study of information needs.  Patient Education Counseling.  April 2004; 53(1): 57 – 64.

4. Bottorff J.L., Oliffe J.L., Halpin M., Phillips M., McLean G., Mroz L. Women and prostate cancer support groups:  The gender connect?  Social Science Medicine.  March 2008; 66(5): 1217 - 27.