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Full text of this paper is not available in the ETD Center. Copies may be available for inter-library loan from University of Cincinnati or may be available for purchase from Proquest/UMI

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HOW PERSONS WITH SCHIZOPHRENIA EXPERIENCE CONNECTING WITH MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS

Brammer, Susan V
http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ucin965230610

Abstract Details

2000, PhD, University of Cincinnati, Nursing : Doctoral Program in Nursing.
The purpose of this study was to develop a substantive theory that explains how persons with schizophrenia (PWS) experience connecting with mental health professionals (MHPs). Nine PWS, clients from two community mental health centers, were asked to recount their interactions with MHPs. The interview transcripts were analyzed through the grounded theory method of Strauss and Corbin (1998). The interactional problem between PWS and MHPs stems from the stigma associated with schizophrenia. The central concept emerged from the data analysis as Connecting Through Humanness. Connecting Through Humanness is a three-part process where PWS identify whether MHPs stereotype them as schizophrenics or regard them as unique human beings. The first part, called Displaying, encompasses the circumstances under which PWS present themselves to MHPs for treatment. The second part, Sizing-Up, is the way in which PWS evaluate whether MHPs communicate understanding, compassion, and normalcy during the interactions. The result of Sizing-Up provides the basis for the final part of the process, called Classifying. PWS classify MHPs as helpful or not helpful. The MHPs who PWS classify as helpful, validate their self-perceptions as unique human beings. The resulting theory is that PWS experience connecting with MHPs as interactions that are based upon mutual humanness. Descriptions in the literature of PWS and MHP interactions support the findings of this study. In addition, the conceptualization of the theory’s central category, Connecting Through Humanness, is supported by nurse researchers in the extant literature. Nurse-patient relationships can be improved by applying the findings of this study to current practice and future research projects.
Elaine Miller (Advisor)
Interpersonal relations; Grounded Theory; Mental Health; Qualitative Research; Schizophrenia

Recommended Citations

Citations

  • Brammer, S. V. (2000). HOW PERSONS WITH SCHIZOPHRENIA EXPERIENCE CONNECTING WITH MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS [Doctoral dissertation, University of Cincinnati]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ucin965230610

    APA Style (7th edition)

  • Brammer, Susan. HOW PERSONS WITH SCHIZOPHRENIA EXPERIENCE CONNECTING WITH MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS. 2000. University of Cincinnati, Doctoral dissertation. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center, http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ucin965230610.

    MLA Style (8th edition)

  • Brammer, Susan. "HOW PERSONS WITH SCHIZOPHRENIA EXPERIENCE CONNECTING WITH MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS." Doctoral dissertation, University of Cincinnati, 2000. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ucin965230610

    Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)

ucin965230610
© 2000, all rights reserved.
This open access ETD is published by University of Cincinnati and OhioLINK.