A qualitative study exploring relatives' experience of seeking help for a person during the early stages of schizophrenia

Abstract

Background Research suggests that early intervention for schizophrenia improves prognosis and prevents relapse, but factors which influence early access to services still remain unclear. Two factors which have been implicated, however, are family involvement and gender of the person. Aims The current study set out to explore relatives' experience of seeking help for a person during the early stages of schizophrenia. This was to be considered in general terms and with particular reference to the influence that the gender of the person had on this process. Participants Clients with a diagnosis of schizophrenia in the last fifteen years were identified through routine clinical services and their permission sought to contact a relative. Eight relatives of men, and eight relatives of women, with schizophrenia were recruited. Methodology A qualitative, methodology was used. Relatives were interviewed about their experience using a semi-structured interview schedule. Results were analysed using a Grounded Theory method (Glaser and Strauss, 1990). Major Findings A theoretical framework for understanding the process of relative's adjustment to their experience was developed. The framework suggests that there are four inter-related phases that relatives go through during their help seeking experience. The framework also suggests that resolution is achieved when relatives' needs are adequately met in the following four areas: Understanding; Action; Integration of Difference; and Communication/Interaction. implications for Clinical Practice, Service Delivery and further research are discussed.