Posted by Dr. Bob on May 1, 2006, at 23:22:48
In reply to Re: We can put together a list, posted by Dr. Bob on December 29, 2005, at 1:00:31
> there could be advantages to a list of potential risks, benefits, and alternatives. Would anyone like to add anything else?
No one did, but here's what I've come up with:
Potential benefits to group members include: They may feel empowered by the opportunity to discuss their experiences with mental health professionals in person and may gain a deeper appreciation of the effects, for better or for worse, of participation in online peer support groups. The primary objective of the workshop is, however, to benefit the workshop attendees, not the group members.
Possible risks to group members include: They may find it stressful to speak in public about themselves or mental health issues. They may be treated disrespectfully by other group members, by workshop attendees (who may, for example, ask questions they regard as invasions of privacy), or by third parties (who may picket this meeting). They may be recognized by workshop attendees. Their experiences may be reported by me or by members of the press who may be in attendance.
Safeguards include: Group members will speak only to workshop attendees in small groups. They will not be obligated to respond to any questions. Admittance to the workshop will be restricted to registered meeting attendees. I will inform everyone at the beginning of the workshop that I may later write about it. Members of the press will not be allowed to tape the proceedings. Group members will be able to participate in the workshop (as they do in the group itself) under pseudonyms. Group members will have the opportunity to discuss these risks with me -- and with each other, which might in some ways actually be an improvement on the usual informed consent process. No group members will be obligated to go to Toronto; if they do go to Toronto (for the group birthday party that weekend), they will not be obligated to go to the workshop; and if they do go to the workshop, they will be able to leave at any time.
Regarding becoming registered meeting attendees, could Babblers planning to attend please email me? Thanks,
Bob
poster:Dr. Bob
thread:537862
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20060422/msgs/639073.html