What's in a name? Reasons for changing names among english high security hospital patients

Abstract

Up to one fifth of offender patients change names, but their reasons for this have not been studied. This study investigates reasons for name change among serious offender patients. All patients resident in an English high security hospital with documented name changes were approached for interview. Semi-structured interviews were conducted by one person (BV). Audio-transcripts were analysed using qualitative methodology. Two main groups emerged: those who changed name(s) once or twice and those who had multiple name changes. For the former, three major themes of changing emerged: making or breaking family ties, wanting a fresh start, and difficulties with the name itself. Multiple changers were more idiosyncratic in their reasons for name changing and choice of name and achieved little satisfaction with the changes. We conclude that understanding the reasons for name change among people with mental disorders is important for their continuing treatment, as it may indicate internal mental change.