Abstracts
issue 2/2010 (English)
R. Forster / G. Braunegger-Kallinger / P. Nowak / S. Österreicher: Functions of Health-related Self-help Groups – an Analysis based on the Example of an Austrian Study
In recent years, an increase of health-related self-help groups can be observed. This article wants to work out key differences in the field based on a theoretical analysis of societal functions and a review of empirical data. Three functions of self-help groups are derived from theoretical considerations: »mutual support«, »complementary service provision through individual support«, and a »collective representation of interests«. An empirical analysis, in context of a most recent and comprehensive Austrian study, shows that most of the health-related self-help groups can be described in three types, representing various combinations of these functions. Organizational structures, activities, the need for resources and external relations of these types of groups differ significantly and in accordance with the theoretical assumptions.
Other abstracts in this issue:
- National Identity Construction in Austrian and Swiss Sports Media Coverage – a Qualitative Content Analysis of the European Football Championship 2008
- Condition or Enrichment? Non-governmental Actors in the Open Method of Co-ordination for Social Inclusion in Austria
- Implementation of Gender Mainstreaming in the Rural Development of Austria – Neglects and Perspectives
- »Taking a Chance« – The Understanding of Contraception in Context of the Desire to Have a Child in Advanced Age
- Social Prestige of Music Styles in Austria – Discussion of the Questionability of Music Preference Surveys Based on Selected Results of the Study »Wozu Musik?« (»Why Music?«)