Support Group Code of Ethics

4 April 2011 version 1.0 Page | 1

To sustain a supportive atmosphere, all support group participants should adopt the following attitudes

and behaviors:

CONFIDENTIALITY

What is said in the group remains in the group. Please be respectful of its importance.

WE MUST NOT JUDGE ONE ANOTHER

We‟re here to listen and to share, but not to tell each other how to solve problems.

BE CONSIDERATE OF OTHERS‟ FEELINGS

Feelings are feelings, and are neither right nor wrong.

SHARE THE FLOOR

Each group member must be permitted time to speak without interruption.

KNOW YOUR ROLE

A student coping with the illness or death of a loved one is not a therapist or counselor.

GRIEF IS NOT A DISEASE

Do not expect to be cured of grief.

ATTEND EVERY MEETING THAT YOU CAN

Dealing with your grief can be very difficult, but you will certainly benefit from participating in these

meetings.

AVOID GIVING ADVICE

If a group member poses a question, instead of giving advice, share ideas that helped you when you

experienced a similar situation.

USE THE „I PASS” OPTION WHEN YOU DO NOT FEEL COMFORTABLE SHARING

If you are not ready to participate in a particular discussion or activity when the conversation or activity is

directed toward you, simply say “I pass”.