Relatedness and connectedness: an exploration of how young people make sense of their relationships during their recovery from first-episode psychosis

Symonds, Amy (2018). Relatedness and connectedness: an exploration of how young people make sense of their relationships during their recovery from first-episode psychosis. University of Birmingham. Clin.Psy.D.

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Abstract

Background: Psychosis is often first experienced during the formative developmental stage of adolescence and early adulthood. For many young people, a first-episode of psychosis disrupts typical developmental processes, such as the formation of social roles and relationships. Following an episode of psychosis, many young people face challenges of social exclusion, loss and isolation. Research suggests that social support may influence recovery from a range of mental and physical health problems.
Aim: The aim of the systematic review is to synthesise the findings of research studies which have investigated the role of social support in recovery for people experiencing a first-episode of psychosis.
Method: Three electronic databases were systematically searched for empirical, published literature. A total of 18 studies were selected for review following the application of inclusion and exclusion criteria. The methodological quality of each study was appraised using a standardised checklist.
Results: The number of sources of social support, frequency of contact with sources of support, satisfaction with support, and who provides the support are differentially associated with symptomatic/clinical, functional/social and personal recovery outcomes. Clinical implications and suggestions for future research are discussed.
Conclusions: Social support appears to play a role in the recovery of people experiencing a first-episode of psychosis. Support from friends may be particularly important, especially for functional recovery. The lack of conceptual consensus and methodological limitations within the literature mean that the nature and extent of the role of social support within recovery remains unclear.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Clin.Psy.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Clin.Psy.D.

Supervisor(s):