Life review in groups? An explorative analysis of social processes that facilitate or hinder the effectiveness of life review

Objectives: Life review can be implemented within a group as well as on an individual level. There have been few discussions about which the format is most effective. This study investigates the social aspects of a life-review group intervention from the perspective of the client within the context of a large, randomized controlled trial. Method: This was an exploratory study using a qualitative methodology. We conducted semi-structured interviews to explore how participants felt about the benefits and barriers of receiving life review in a group. Transcripts of the interviews were analyzed using inductive analysis. Results: The social processes of life review in a group included experiencing a sense of belonging, feeling accepted, finding good company, disclosing oneself, learning to express oneself, finding recognition, realizing that others have problems too, being more successful at coping than others, learning from others, and being able to help others. Negative processes were less often mentioned and included having difficulties with sharing in a group, finding no recognition, and anxiety caused by the prospect of finding no recognition. These social processes can be divided into three categories: first, having a good atmosphere in the group; second, disclosure to peers; and third, relating to others. Conclusion: Our results reveal a variety of social processes that may facilitate the effects of life-review therapy. Future research, however, is needed to further examine the importance of these social processes and their effects on depression