Overcoming barriers faced by African-American families with a family member with mental illness

A qualitative research design combined with a quantitative analytic technique, concept mapping, was used to examine and address barriers to African-American families' involvement in the treatment of their family members with mental illness. Focus groups were formed with lay and professional informants. The focus groups recommended a variety of strategies for improving caregiver supports and increasing the involvement of caregivers in the treatment process. The implications of these findings for mental health professionals are discussed.