Understanding Post-Stroke Emotional Lability - 1

  • Research type

    Research Study

  • Full title

    A qualitative study seeking to understand experiences of Post-Stroke Emotional Lability.

  • IRAS ID

    256991

  • Contact name

    George Johnson

  • Contact email

    G.A.Johnson@bham.ac.uk

  • Sponsor organisation

    University of Birmingham

  • Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier

    ERN_18-1926, ERN reference:

  • Duration of Study in the UK

    0 years, 5 months, 30 days

  • Research summary

    The proposed study aims to explore participant’s experiences with Post-Stroke Emotional Lability (PSEL). Emotional lability can be described as an increase in emotional behaviour, often episodes of laughing or crying, that are difficult to control. Such episodes may not reflect the person’s true emotions and may appear to be an inappropriate or over exaggerated response to the situation. Research shows that such situations are often found to be embarrassing or uncomfortable for those affected, and can result in a negative impact on the individual's social life. Current literature in this area has mostly explored the effectiveness of medical treatments, meaning that little is understood about personal experiences of PSEL and the effect it has on daily lives and relationships. Even less is known about the understanding, management or impact of PSEL in relatives and staff members. This study is valuable in that it can provide a better insight in to PSEL experiences. Such information can be used to improve identification and understanding of the symptoms, and to advise those affected of what they may expect. Additionally, the findings may be useful in developing coping strategies or psychological interventions for those living with PSEL.

    This study aims to use qualitative methods to develop a better understanding of participant’s personal experiences with PSEL. The data will be collected through the use of individual semi-structured interviews with people presenting with PSEL and relatives of individuals presenting with PSEL. A focus group will also be used for staff members who work with patients experiencing PSEL. This will allow for a range of information to be collected from multiple different perspectives involved with PSEL. Participation in an interview or focus group will last approximately 60 – 90 minutes and participants will be recruited through the Neurological Rehabilitation Services within the Worcestershire Health and Care NHS.

  • REC name

    London - Surrey Research Ethics Committee

  • REC reference

    19/LO/0713

  • Date of REC Opinion

    23 Apr 2019

  • REC opinion

    Favourable Opinion