Superkids: short-term group therapy for children with abusive backgrounds.

Many children who are hospitalized have a history of physical or sexual abuse. A short-term therapy group for children with abusive backgrounds, called Superkids, was led by nurse therapists using a combination of active role playing, masks, picture drawing, and discussion. The group was structured and covered five topics over a 2 1/2 week period: shame, anger, fear, trust and love. Clinical observations suggest that the Superkids group structure helps children talk about their feelings and the abuse they have suffered. Through a brief intervention group, members learn they are not alone and that they are accepted by their peers.

The effect of pilgrimage on anxiety, depression and religious attitude.

This investigation aimed to ascertain the levels of anxiety, depression and religion attitude, by means of rating scales, in a group of physically sick men and women planning to go on a pilgrimage to Lourdes. These levels were reassessed one month and ten months after the pilgrims had returned. There was a statistically significant decrease in anxiety and depression which was sustained. The possible reasons for these findings are discussed.