An exploration of the impact of chronic gastrointestinal conditions upon interpersonal relationships

  • Lisa O'Brien

Student thesis: Doctor of Clinical Psychology

Abstract

This thesis provides an exploration of chronic gastrointestinal conditions and interpersonal relationships from the patient perspective. The thesis consists of three papers: 1) a systematic literature review, 2) an empirical study, and 3) a critical evaluation and reflection on the research process. The systematic literature review (Paper 1) is a meta-synthesis of qualitative research investigating patients’ experiences of the impact of inflammatory bowel disease upon interpersonal relationships. Forty-three studies, capturing the views of 1171 individuals were identified for inclusion. Eleven subthemes and four main themes were identified: 1) Feeling understood 2) The challenge of disclosure 3) Managing symptoms 4) Barriers within intimate relationships and dating. An overarching theme of Visibility and concealment captures the complexity of participants’ desire for the illness to be understood which was complicated by the avoidance of vulnerability and attempts to conceal symptoms. This is the first systematic review of inflammatory bowel disease and interpersonal relationships. Findings highlight that the presence of general social support is not always reflective of illness support in inflammatory bowel disease. Illness specific challenges are discussed alongside key areas for service development and further research. The empirical study (Paper 2) explored the experiences of patients with severe gastrointestinal dysmotility and the impact of this condition upon partner relationships. Qualitative secondary analysis of interviews with twenty patients were analysed using thematic analysis. Four themes were developed from the data: 1) Restriction within relationships, 2) Food as a social tool, 3) Gatekeeping partner support, 4) Valuing support. The findings highlighted that the condition posed different challenges for those in partner relationships and those who were single. Clinical recommendations are made to consider the partner relationships in assessments of psychosocial wellbeing for severe gastrointestinal dysmotility. Key areas for future research are highlighted.
Date of Award31 Dec 2021
Original languageEnglish
Awarding Institution
  • The University of Manchester
SupervisorAlison Wearden (Supervisor) & Sarah Peters (Supervisor)

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