Perceptions of Personal Strength and Sense of Self Following Psychosis
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Perceptions of Personal Strength and Sense of Self Following a First Episode of Psychosis: A Constructivist Grounded Theory Approach
IRAS ID
153324
Contact name
Jenny Moses
Contact email
Research summary
Psychosis is considered one of the most severe events a person can be subjected to (Lundy, 1992). The media have traditionally conceptualised psychosis as a crippling disease of the brain that carries poor prognosis with little or no chance of recovery (Roe et al., 2004; Schiff, 2004). However, there is a recently emerging enquiry into the transformative nature of psychosis which views a psychotic experience as having the potential for post traumatic growth (Mapplebeck,2010; Nixon et al, 2010).
Some of the noted areas of post traumatic growth following an episode of psychosis include; redefinition of the self, increased self-awareness, self development, and personal growth (e.g., Andresen et al., 2003; Barker, Lavender & Morant, 2001; Davidson, 2003; Kelly & Gamble, 2005; Lipner, 1985; Ramon et al., 2007; Repper & Perkins, 2003). This study will explore how individuals make sense of the psychotic experience in relation to pre-existing beliefs of themselves. How this process creates for them an adapted sense of self (Mapplebeck,2010) and produces changes (e.g. Depreciation and growth) in perceptions of personal strength (Alexander & Oesterreich, 2013).
The study will employ a constructivist grounded theory approach (Charmaz, 2000,2006). Participants will be recruited from Cwm Taf Health Board and if necessary Aneurin Bevan Health Board. Individuals will also be invited to participate from 3rd sector organisations (4Winds Service User Led Organisation, Hafal and Hearing Voices Network). They will be invited to partake in an interview with the lead researcher, lasting approximately 95 minutes. Interviews will be transcribed, analysed and a report will be produced and disseminated.
REC name
Wales REC 4
REC reference
14/WA/1076
Date of REC Opinion
28 Aug 2014
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion