“I’m still a me:” challenges and changes to the relational-self following the onset of aphasia, a grounded theory study

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Purpose People with post-stroke aphasia experience relationship changes which can lead to an altered relational self. The aim of this research was to explore the experiences of a group of people with post-stroke aphasia regarding changes to the relational self. Method A constructivist grounded theory approach was used. Ten people with post-stroke aphasia were interviewed on two occasions. Participants were 34–74 years old, with aphasia ranging from mild to severe. Data was coded and categorised to identify themes and sub themes. Results We identified three overarching themes and related subthemes on the development of the relational self. The first was “developing self-knowledge” and involved building knowledge around communication difficulties and needs, personal attributes and life roles. The second theme was “relationship specific experiences impacting the self” which described experiences specific to significant others. The final theme, the “Who am I with Aphasia?” comprised aspects of a generalised relational self, conceptualisations of a life with aphasia and the continuity of the self. Conclusion The relational self changes over time and is multifaceted. People with post stroke aphasia need to redevelop a relational self and supporting a positive relational self could be the focus of therapeutic interventions.