Examining the Contribution of Social Network Support to the Recovery Process Among Clubhouse Members

Abstract

A structured interview was used to gather information pertaining to social network support and the recovery process among individuals participating in psychosocial clubhouses. Using a cross-sectional, longitudinal design, a sample of clubhouse members participated in an initial interview (n = 221). A follow-up interview with 80% of the participants was conducted approximately 14 months later. A social process model predicting recovery revealed that social network support as well as reciprocity with network members significantly contributes to understanding the recovery process over time. The study attempts to contribute to an earlier investigation of social network support and recovery from mental illness (Corrigan & Phelan, 2004).

Keywords:

• Clubhouse
• Cognitive behavior therapy
• PTSD
• Recovery
• Serious mental illness
• Social networks

The authors would like to thank the Flinn Foundation for support for this project. The author extends a special thanks to the following fellow research team members from the home institution of Michigan State University for their work and contribution to the study: Sandra Herman, SuMin Oh, Katie Weaver Randall, Catherine Madalana.

Notes

∗p < .05, ∗∗p < .01.

^a Time 1 Recovery Assessment Scale Factors (n = 221): (1) managing the illness, (2) hopefulness, (3) self-efficacy, (4) purpose in life, (5) social support.

^b Time 2 Recovery Assessment Scale (n = 179).

^c Diagnostic Classification: 0 = Major Affective Disorders; 1 = Schizophrenia and related conditions.

^a Variables measured at time 1.

∗p < .05, ∗∗p < .001, †p < .10.