City Research Online

Abstract

There has long been an interest into how individual personalities are shaped and the impact that early experiences have in developing later pathologies. In recent years many longitudinal studies have been conducted, some spanning decades, in order to ascertain which variables lead to a negative outcomes. Despite this however, there has been a lack of research into those raised by parents with psychotic illnesses. Furthermore, there has been a dearth of studies examining the mental health of men more generally. This study combines those aspects to understand the impact of being raised by a parent with a psychotic illness and the impact it has on men and their subsequent views of themselves and their masculinity.

This study consisted of 8 semi-structured interviews with men who were raised by a parent with a psychotic illness for a minimum of 10 years. The data was collected and systematically analysed in accordance with the principles of Constructivist Grounded Theory.

The findings of this study highlighted: the powerful insight that men developed into their affected parents the illness, their use of suppression as a coping mechanism, the lasting impact of their early experiences on their later adult relationships and the fascinating way in which they all used and viewed therapy.

Suggestions are made regarding future practice for mental health services and the need for Think Family approach to be adopted more consistently amongst services. Suggestions around psychoeducation and the need to include children more in the parents care is also are also mentioned.

Publication Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Departments:	School of Health & Psychological Sciences > Psychology School of Health & Psychological Sciences > School of Health & Psychological Sciences Doctoral Theses Doctoral Theses

Export

Downloads