How can attachment theory help us to understand the relationships of adults diagnosed with a psychotic illness? A theoretical review AND What can mothers who have experienced psychosis, tell us about their experience of parenting? An interpretative phenomenological analysis

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Chauhan, Jaymini (2014). How can attachment theory help us to understand the relationships of adults diagnosed with a psychotic illness? A theoretical review AND What can mothers who have experienced psychosis, tell us about their experience of parenting? An interpretative phenomenological analysis. University of Birmingham. Clin.Psy.D.

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Abstract

The number of people diagnosed with a severe mental illness who become parents is increasing. To date, a majority of the research conducted in this area has mainly focused on the negative aspects and difficulties of parenting. This study is a qualitative study exploring the parenting experience of mothers diagnosed with schizophrenia. It offers a novel contribution to the literature because it focuses on the potential strengths as well as the potential difficulties of parenting in the context of psychosis.
Five women who are mothers diagnosed with schizophrenia and have experienced psychosis during their children’s childhood, were interviewed using a semi-structured interview schedule. Each interview was audio recorded, transcribed and analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA).
Four superordinate themes emerged from the analysis: (1) negative experiences of being mothered, (2) challenges of being a mother with a severe mental illness, (3) powerlessness and (4) I have a purpose in life, I am a mother.
This study demonstrates that mothers diagnosed with schizophrenia encounter difficulties in their parenting role which impacts upon their relationship with their children. Despite these difficulties the participants also expressed pride and happiness in their parenting role, which gave them a new purpose and meaning in life.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Clin.Psy.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Clin.Psy.D.

Supervisor(s):