Objective: The aim is to explore the multivariant effects of trialogue groups from the perspectives of the participants.
Methods: We combined a questionnaire with focus-groups.
Results: Communication in trialogue groups is clearly different from clinical encounters. All three groups cherish and apsire to interest for each other, good will and openness. Daily clinical routine with role prescriptions, power balance and constant pressure to act is experienced as an obstacle. Users and ex-users describe the healing effect of creating a narrative in a public environment. Trialog facilitates a discrete and independent form of communication and acquisition and production of knowledge.
Discussion: Trialogue groups seem to be experimental grounds, teaching participants how to develop equal relationships. Their open atmosphere might be caused by less mutual responsibilities or pressure to act. Trialogue groups have the potential to become even more public.
© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.