ABSTRACT
Mastectomy is a frequently performed, emotionally stressful surgical procedure. Based on theories of loss and grief and crisis intervention, an in-hospital group program has been established to facilitate rehabilitation of patient and family. This paper discusses the alleviation of grief reactions and the fostering of growth-producing behavior through early postoperative participation in such groups. The function of the social worker as a member of an interdisciplinary team is examined, with particular focus on skills involved in promoting and enhancing the group process.
