| Summary: | Guided autobiography for older adults is a promising tool for helpers
interested in working with this population. Outlined by Birren & Deutchman
(1991) this method of group work enables older adults to reflect on and review
life as lived through sharing written reflections in a confidential small group
setting. An ethnographic case study was designed to better illuminate how guided
autobiography impacts older adults and to help determine whether it is a
promising group design for counsellors and other professionals working with
older adults. Seven older adults from West Vancouver participated in a guided
autobiography group using Birren & Deutchman's (1991) methodology, focusing
on the theme, "the major branching points of life". After the completion of the
group each participant was interviewed individually. The interviews were audio-taped,
transcribed and then analyzed for evidence of the outcomes reported by
Birren & Deutchman (1991). Evidence was found in support of the following
outcomes: reconciliation with the past and resolution of past resentments and
negative feelings; resurgence of interest in past activities or hobbies; development
of friendships with other group members. No evidence was found in support of
these outcomes: sense of increased personal power and importance; recognition
of past adaptive strategies and application to current needs and problems; greater
sense of meaning in life. New outcomes were identified as: recognition that
one's life is not yet completed; satisfaction with one's life course; a new
perspective and/or appreciation of one's life through comparison with others; and
a new awareness or heightened awareness of one's contributions and/or abilities. === Education, Faculty of === Educational and Counselling Psychology, and Special Education (ECPS), Department of === Graduate
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