Experiences of family members' whose relatives have a diagnosis of a psychotic disorder

Abstract

This thesis included three standalone papers. Both papers one and two have been prepared for submission in accordance with the relevant journal guidelines. These guidelines have been adhered to; however, some additional material is presented for the purpose of this thesis. Paper one is a systematic review and thematic synthesis of studies with parents supporting an adult child with a diagnosis of a psychotic disorder, exploring what they experience as distressing. Six databases were searched using key words and index terms to identify the qualitative literature exploring parent's caregiving experiences. Thirty-one studies met the inclusion criteria which included a sample of 319 parents (231 mothers and 88 fathers). Seven analytical themes emerged from the synthesis which describe the psychological distress experienced by parents. Gaps were highlighted within the existing literature and recommendations are made for future research. Paper two is a qualitative empirical study which explored the experiences of family members whose relatives have attempted to discontinue neuroleptic medication prescribed for a psychosis. Eleven family members were interviewed about their relative's discontinuation attempts and the support they felt they required from services. A preliminary grounded theory of internal conflict and the impact of supporting relatives in times of medication discontinuation was developed. The theory encompassed three overarching categories, which are detailed with supporting quotations. Findings extended on previous literature, and clinical recommendations are discussed. Paper three is a critique of the research carried out in papers one and two. This paper is not intended for publication, and instead, discusses the rationale for the research design in both papers. This includes an evaluation of the research area, methodological decisions, strengths, limitations, and implications for future research and clinical practice. This paper ends with personal reflections on the research process.

Date of Award	4 Dec 2019
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	The University of Manchester
Supervisor	Sara Tai (Main Supervisor) & Yvonne Awenat (Co Supervisor)