Abstract
Purpose : The objective of this study was to describe how public health nurses (PHNs) support mothers, who have vague worries about bringing up children or feel somewhat isolated, by introducing them to peer support groups (Groups). Methods : The subjects were five PHNs. The data were collected from semi-structured interviews about support provided to mothers, and analyzed using summarized content analysis. Results : The supports were classified into five sequential phases and the findings indicated there are direct and indirect interventions when working with representatives or the Groups themselves. The first phase includes "providing detailed information that helps the mothers picture what the Groups are like," and "telling mothers about the advantages of participation." The second phase involves "keeping in touch with the mothers," and "requesting representatives to discuss the mothers' needs." The third phase includes "introducing the mothers to representatives," and "staying with the mothers to observe them." The fourth phase involves "asking about their impressions after the first meeting," and "sharing information about the mothers with representatives." The fifth phase includes "monitoring the physical and emotional state of the mothers and their children by continually being involved in regular health examinations," and "keeping in touch with representatives." Discussion : The supports from PHNs include: providing detailed information that motivates mothers to join the Groups; observing the mothers and evaluating their conditions, while still respecting the mothers' autonomy; and all the while trying to establish mutual trust. Ultimately, the aforementioned is to reduce the mothers' worries.
