An investigation exploring the biological and affective pathway to psychosis

Mason, Emily (2015). An investigation exploring the biological and affective pathway to psychosis. University of Birmingham. M.Res.

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Abstract

Three projects were undertaken. 1) In developing a measure of mental health literacy, literature review and thematic analysis of both mental health service user interviews and students were conducted to decipher what where gaps in knowledge lie. Quotes from transcripts were modified and collated across three sources of data to develop items for a measure of mental health literacy. 2) As part of Early Intervention Services (EIS) for psychosis a literature review on social recovery was conducted. The review revealed that aspects outside of symptomatic recovery are important in psychosis remission to ensure quality of life and reduce relapse. Only with social recovery can fully functional recovery occur. Based on the evidence the EIS propose a protocol where underlying variables are used to streamline individuals into low, medium and high intensity intervention groups. 3) An investigation of the biological and affective pathway to psychosis was conducted using analysis of data from a study on autism and psychosis. The overlap between autism and psychosis is suggestive of biological underpinnings however there’s also evidence for the effect of stress induced onset. Autistic traits, family history and childhood trauma were looked at to differentiate causal influence. Results supported the hypothesis of two pathways.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Masters by Research > M.Res.)

Award Type:

Masters by Research > M.Res.

Supervisor(s):