Investigating relationships between momentary social interactions and psychosis using the experience sampling method.

  • Leanne Irwin

Student thesis: Doctor of Clinical Psychology

Abstract

The aim of this thesis was to explore which aspects of social interactions impact on positive psychosis experiences. It is presented to the reader as three separate papers. 1) A systematic literature review exploring which social factors are predictive of momentary positive psychosis experiences, 2) an empirical paper investigating how compassionate interactions from staff on an inpatient ward are associated with service users' experiences of psychosis, affect and risk incidents, and 3) a critical appraisal and personal reflection of the overall research process. Paper 1 presents a systematic review of the existing literature exploring the relationships between social factors and positive psychosis experiences as measured by the experience sampling method. Twenty-three studies were identified based on the inclusion criteria. Although there were issues with generalisability of studies, results indicate that spending time with familiar individuals reduces psychosis experiences. Social stress and negative appraisals of being unwanted, and feelings of loneliness and social disconnectedness increase psychosis. Recommendations for future research and clinical implications were discussed. The empirical study presented in paper 2 explores the relationships between compassionate interactions from staff, and momentary psychosis, affect and incidences of harm to self/others using the experience sampling method. Initial results showed a slight increase in voice hearing when experiencing more compassionate interactions from staff. Fears of compassion was added as moderator and was found to significantly moderate the relationship between paranoia and positive affect. Methodological strengths and limitations were discussed, alongside clinical implications and directions for future research. Paper 3 provides a critical reflection of the research process involved in the two papers presented.
Date of Award31 Dec 2023
Original languageEnglish
Awarding Institution
  • The University of Manchester
SupervisorKatherine Berry (Supervisor), Tobyn Bell (Supervisor) & Lesley-Anne Carter (Supervisor)

Keywords

  • ESM
  • experience sampling method
  • social interactions
  • compassion
  • psychosis
  • inpatient wards

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