---
title: Does a support group help women with PMS feel better about themselves?
description: The study could not prove that support groups change self-esteem. However, all women in the support group said they felt helped.
url: https://niyora.com/research/papers/the-effect-of-a-support-group-on-self-esteem-of-women-with-premenstrual-syndrome-1987/
---

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- Does a support group help women with PMS feel better about themselves?

Non-randomised trial, 1987

# Does a support group help women with PMS feel better about themselves?

The study could not prove that support groups change self-esteem. However, all women in the support group said they felt helped.

 Early or limited evidence

Women with premenstrual syndrome

## What they did

Two groups of women with PMS. One attended a support group, the other did not. Researchers measured self-esteem at the start and after 8 weeks.

## What they found

Self-esteem scores did not change significantly in either group after 8 weeks. Despite this, every woman in the support group reported receiving benefits from attending.

## What it means for you

The study was too small to show whether support groups actually help with self-esteem. Women felt helped, but the study cannot prove it. A larger study would be needed to know.

8 weeks

study duration

## About the study

Original title The effect of a support group on self-esteem of women with premenstrual syndrome Authors Walton J, Youngkin E Journal Journal of obstetric, gynecologic, and neonatal nursing : JOGNN Year 1987 Study design Non-randomised trial What was tested Support group attendance Read the paper [doi.org/10.1111/j.1552-6909.1987.tb01454.x](https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1552-6909.1987.tb01454.x)

## Topics

[Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)](https://niyora.com/research/topics/condition-pms/)[Psychotherapy, counselling and education](https://niyora.com/research/topics/treatment-psychotherapy/)

Research tells you what helps on average. Niyora helps on the day it hits.

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