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Pedersen AM, Straarup KN, Holm T, Sawatzki D, Hansen MT, Thomsen DK. Illness and narrative identity: examining past and future life story chapters in individuals with bipolar disorder, diabetes mellitus or no chronic illness. Memory 2024; 32:819-832. [PMID: 38949877 DOI: 10.1080/09658211.2024.2366625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate whether narrative identity challenges are specific to Bipolar Disorder (BD) as a mental illness or a reflection of living with chronic illness. Nineteen individuals diagnosed with BD, 29 individuals diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) and 25 controls without chronic mental or somatic illness identified past and future life story chapters which were self-rated on emotional tone and self-event connections and content-coded for agency and communion themes. Individuals with BD self-rated their past chapters as more negative and less positive, and their chapters were lower on content-coded agency and communion themes compared to T1DM and controls. There were fewer group differences for future chapters, but BD was associated with lower self-rated positive emotional tone and self-stability connections as well as lower content-coded agency and communion themes. The results indicate that narrative identity is affected in individuals with BD above and beyond the consequences of living with chronic illness. This may reflect distinct effects of mental versus somatic illness on narrative identity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Mai Pedersen
- Department of Psychology, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Center on Autobiographical Memory Research (CON AMORE), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Dermatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- National Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Tine Holm
- Psychosis Research Unit, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Dela Sawatzki
- Department of Psychology, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Center on Autobiographical Memory Research (CON AMORE), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Marie Tranberg Hansen
- Department of Psychology, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Center on Autobiographical Memory Research (CON AMORE), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Dorthe Kirkegaard Thomsen
- Department of Psychology, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Center on Autobiographical Memory Research (CON AMORE), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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Cowan HR, McAdams DP, Ouellet L, Jones CM, Mittal VA. Self-concept and Narrative Identity in Youth at Clinical High Risk for Psychosis. Schizophr Bull 2024; 50:848-859. [PMID: 37816626 PMCID: PMC11283199 DOI: 10.1093/schbul/sbad142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND HYPOTHESIS Disturbances of the narrative self and personal identity accompany the onset of psychotic disorders in late adolescence and early adulthood (a formative developmental stage for self-concept and personal narratives). However, these issues have primarily been studied retrospectively after illness onset, limiting any inferences about their developmental course. STUDY DESIGN Youth at clinical high risk for psychosis (CHR) (n = 49) and matched healthy comparison youth (n = 52) completed a life story interview (including self-defining memory, turning point, life challenge, and psychotic-like experience) and questionnaires assessing self-esteem, self-beliefs, self-concept clarity, and ruminative/reflective self-focus. Trained raters coded interviews for narrative identity themes of emotional tone, agency, temporal coherence, context coherence, self-event connections, and meaning-making (intraclass correlations >0.75). Statistical analyses tested group differences and relationships between self-concept, narrative identity, symptoms, and functioning. STUDY RESULTS CHR participants reported more negative self-esteem and self-beliefs, poorer self-concept clarity, and more ruminative self-focus, all of which related to negative symptoms. CHR participants narrated their life stories with themes of negative emotion and passivity (ie, lack of personal agency), which related to positive and negative symptoms. Reflective self-focus and autobiographical reasoning were unaffected and correlated. Autobiographical reasoning was uniquely associated with preserved role functioning. CONCLUSIONS This group of youth at CHR exhibited some, but not all, changes to self-concept and narrative identity seen in psychotic disorders. A core theme of negativity, uncertainty, and passivity ran through their semantic and narrative self-representations. Preserved self-reflection and autobiographical reasoning suggest sources of resilience and potential footholds for cognitive-behavioral and metacognitive interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry R Cowan
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Dan P McAdams
- Psychology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Leah Ouellet
- Human Development and Social Policy, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
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Dijkstra SA, Rijkeboer J, Noordhof A, Boyette LL, Berendsen S, de Koning M, Bennen RLJ, Hofman T, de Haan L. Making Sense of Recovery From First Psychosis With Antipsychotic Medication: A Qualitative Phenomenological Study. Schizophr Bull 2024:sbae104. [PMID: 39004928 DOI: 10.1093/schbul/sbae104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND HYPOTHESIS Recovering from a first psychosis is a highly individual process and requires the person to make sense of their experiences. Clinicians, in turn, need to comprehend these first-person perspectives, creating a mutual sense-making dynamic. Antipsychotic medication is a substantial part of psychosis treatment. Providing insight in the lived experience of recovery with antipsychotics could improve the mutual understanding and help bridge the gap between the perspective of the clinician and that of the person recovering from psychosis. STUDY DESIGN 14 persons in recovery from a first psychosis with the use of antipsychotics were interviewed. Their narratives were analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). STUDY RESULTS Five overarching themes were found, representing important and meaningful experiences in recovering with antipsychotic medication. Theme 1: antipsychotics as external dampening (4 subthemes); Theme 2: shifting of realities; Theme 3: pace of recovery; Theme 4: antipsychotics' influence on identity; and Theme 5: is it truly the antipsychotics? CONCLUSIONS Our findings show that recovery from psychosis with antipsychotics is an all-encompassing, multi-faceted, and ambivalent experience. The themes found in this research could inspire clinicians to discuss less obvious aspects of the experience of recovering with antipsychotics. Even more so, paying attention to the first-person perspective could lead to a more thorough understanding and benefit therapeutic relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphanie Astrid Dijkstra
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jennifer Rijkeboer
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Arjen Noordhof
- Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lindy-Lou Boyette
- Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Steven Berendsen
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Dimence Mental Health Care, Deventer, The Netherlands
| | - Mariken de Koning
- Department of Research, Arkin Institute for Mental Health, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Romy Liza Japien Bennen
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tim Hofman
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lieuwe de Haan
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Sparrow R, Fornells-Ambrojo M. Two people making sense of a story: narrative exposure therapy as a trauma intervention in early intervention in psychosis. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2024; 15:2355829. [PMID: 38856038 PMCID: PMC11168218 DOI: 10.1080/20008066.2024.2355829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Narrative exposure therapy (NET) is a recommended intervention for people with multiple trauma histories; however, research is lacking into its use with people experiencing psychosis, many of whom report multiple trauma histories.Objective: This study aimed to explore experiences of NET in early intervention in psychosis (EIP) services.Method: Eight clinicians and four experts with lived experience (experts by experience) of psychosis and multiple trauma were interviewed on a single occasion using two versions (clinician and expert by experience) of a semi-structured interview schedule. Data was analysed using thematic analysis.Results: Five overarching themes were generated, relating to fear and avoidance of memories, importance of trust, organizing memories and making new meaning, reconnecting with emotions, and considerations when delivering NET in EIP.Conclusions: Directly addressing the impact of multiple trauma in people experiencing first episode psychosis is frightening and emotive, but helps to address painful memories and organize them into a personal narrative. Increases in distress and anomalous experiences were carefully considered by clinicians, but typically outweighed by the benefits of NET. Challenges were comparable to those described in non-psychosis research. Implications for clinical practice and future research are outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Sparrow
- Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Miriam Fornells-Ambrojo
- Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
- Early Intervention in Psychosis Services, North East London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Mikhaylova O, Bochaver A, Yerofeyeva V. Education, relationships, and place: life choices in the narratives of university master students. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1232370. [PMID: 38694431 PMCID: PMC11061474 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1232370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Choice is one of the most roughly defined concepts in contemporary social sciences. Previous studies have elucidated the factors that influence young people's choices in different life situations. However, it is still unclear how young people evaluate these choices and how they integrate them into their biographies. In this study, we examine the narratives of 30 first-year master's students at HSE University with regard to two categories of life choices: those that they perceive as fortunate and those that they perceive as unfortunate. Using a written online survey, the data was collected in the spring of 2022. To categorize the different decision kinds, thematic analysis was applied. Overall, we discovered that narratives about the life choices made by master students concentrated on education, relationships and place.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oxana Mikhaylova
- Centre for Modern Childhood Research, HSE University, Moscow, Russia
- Department for Social Institutions Analysis, HSE University, Moscow, Russia
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Conneely M, Roe D, Hasson-Ohayon I, Pijnenborg GHM, van der Meer L, Speyer H. Antipsychotics and Identity: The Adverse Effect No One is Talking About. Community Ment Health J 2024:10.1007/s10597-024-01255-w. [PMID: 38427277 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-024-01255-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
People who take antipsychotics, and people who are prescribed antipsychotics without taking them, experience effects which are not frequently discussed: effects on their identity and sense of self. Qualitative research indicates the relationship between taking APs and identity is multilayered, and changeable. Taking APs can restore people to their earlier, pre-symptom sense of self. Being prescribed and taking APs can also, on the other hand, be experienced as damaging, erasing and dulling people's sense of who they are. This complexity deserves exploration in clinical practice, which we believe is currently not done routinely. More work is needed to understand whether, and how, the relationship between identity and APs is being addressed. We outline the importance of having discussions in a clinical space around identity, and a sense of agency, on the grounds that true recovery-oriented care, which enacts shared decision-making principles, demands it. Further, we argue that it will allow for better therapeutic alliance and trust to be forged between clinician and client, ultimately leading to better care.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Conneely
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, Maple House, W1T 7BN, London, UK.
| | - D Roe
- Department of Psychology, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - I Hasson-Ohayon
- Department of Psychology, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - G H M Pijnenborg
- Department of Clinical and Developmental Neuropsychology, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - L van der Meer
- Department of Clinical and Developmental Neuropsychology, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - H Speyer
- Mental Health Centre Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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van Sambeek N, Franssen G, van Geelen S, Scheepers F. Making meaning of trauma in psychosis. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1272683. [PMID: 38025479 PMCID: PMC10656619 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1272683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Finding new meaning and identity in the aftermath of trauma has been identified as a key process of mental health recovery. However, research indicates that this meaning-making process is compromised in people with psychosis. Considering the high prevalence, yet under-treatment of trauma in people with psychosis, it is urgent to gain insight into how their meaning-making process can be supported. Aim To gain insight into how people with psychosis make meaning of trauma and identify barriers and facilitators in their meaning-making process. Methods Qualitative inquiry of N = 21 interviews transcripts from the Dutch Psychiatry Storybank. We included interviews of people who (a) lived through multiple psychotic episodes, and (b) spontaneously addressed traumatic experiences in a low-structured interview. Storyline analysis was performed to gain insight into the meaning-making of trauma within their self-stories. Psychosocial conceptualizations of narrative identity were used to inform the analysis. A data-validation session with four experts-by-experience was organized to check and improve the quality of our analysis. Results We identified four different story types: (1) Psychiatry as the wrong setting to find meaning; (2) The ongoing struggle to get trauma-therapy; (3) Exposure to trauma as a threat to a stable life, and (4) Disclosure as the key to resolving alienation. Each story type comprises a different plot, meaning of trauma withing the self-story, (lack of) integration and barriers and facilitators in the meaning-making process. Overall, barriers in the meaning-making process were mostly situated within mental healthcare and stigma-related. People felt particularly hindered by pessimistic ideas on their capacity to develop self-insight and cope with distress, resulting in limited treatment options. Their process of adaptive meaning-making often started with supportive, non-judgmental relationships with individuals or communities that offered them the safety to disclose trauma and motivated them to engage in a process of self-inquiry and growth. Conclusion The outcomes illuminate the social context of the meaning-making challenges that people with psychosis face and illustrate the devastating influence of stigma. Our outcomes offer guidance to remove barriers to adaptive meaning-making in people with psychosis, and can help clinicians to attune to differences in the meaning-making of trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nienke van Sambeek
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Gaston Franssen
- Faculty of Humanities, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Floortje Scheepers
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
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O’Brien-Venus B, Jenkins T, Chadwick P. Self-dehumanisation in voice hearers: the end of a continuum. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1173380. [PMID: 37854440 PMCID: PMC10579558 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1173380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Meta-dehumanisation and self-dehumanisation have been identified as potentially relevant phenomena for developing a deeper understanding of distress related to voice-hearing, particularly those experiencing voices as part of psychosis. Chadwick has previously argued that those with psychosis, including those who hear distressing voices, typically feel "dehumanised and set apart by their experiences of psychosis and trauma." The present study explores the subjective experience of self-dehumanisation in people who experience distressing voices, which was selected as a useful starting point to inform future research focused on understanding dehumanisation in people with psychosis. Methods Qualitative data was obtained through twenty semi-structured interviews with self-identifying voice hearers and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. This followed the recursive six phase procedure of Braun and Clarke, and this was conducted from a critical realist, contextualist position. Results Reflexive thematic analysis of participant's experiences produced a core theme, Dehumanisation as the End of Experiential Continua, and six subthemes: Extent of Distressing Sensory Fragmentation; Sense of Belonging with Other Humans; Integrity of Self as a Private, Coherent Entity; Sense of Worth as a Human Being; Strength of Personal Agency; and Trust in Own Credibility and Reliability. Two further themes, The Push and Pull of Dehumanising Forces and Reclaiming Life through Humanising Forces, were identified. Findings were presented to a panel of five experts by experience, all with lived experience of psychosis and service-use; all five strongly endorsed the themes as fitting with and expressing their own experiences of self-dehumanisation. Conclusion Reflexive thematic analysis of voice hearers' accounts identified self-dehumanisation as the endpoint where six experiential continua coalesce. Experiential movement along these continua was affected by a range of interpersonal, intrapersonal, and societal forces over time, including dehumanising attitudes of others and voice malevolence and omnipotence. Future research might examine if and how psychological therapies aimed at those experiencing distressing voices, such as people experiencing psychosis may address feelings of self-dehumanisation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Paul Chadwick
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
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Kłosińska U, Leszko M. Family relationships as a source of narrative identity of people with advanced dementia. BMC Geriatr 2023; 23:546. [PMID: 37684570 PMCID: PMC10492413 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-023-04258-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The growing body of research on narrative identity, while helpful, rarely focuses on people with dementia. In this paper, we explore how individuals living with advanced dementia construct their narrative identities in relation to their family experiences, which play a crucial role in shaping identity as shown by recent studies. METHODS We conducted a qualitative study using data from 15 semi-structured interviews with people aged 66 to 94 who have advanced dementia. The data were analyzed using a textual-oriented discourse analysis. RESULTS We identified two discourses-autobiographical and economic-that organize their narrative identities. Through the autobiographical discourse, participants emphasized their sense of belonging within a social group and their role as custodians of family identity. Within the economic discourse, they negotiated their social utility and value, particularly in response to demeaning discourses targeting individuals who do not accumulate wealth. In the structural analysis, we identified two narrative types-looped or unfolding-that depend on their affective experiences related to their family. We especially explored how the repetition of narrative threads by individuals with dementia might indicate a traumatic background rather than just memory disruptions. CONCLUSIONS This study provides insights into the narrative identities of individuals with advanced dementia, shedding light on the intersection of family experiences and identity formation in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urszula Kłosińska
- Faculty of Psychology, SWPS University of Social Sciences and Humanities, ul. Ostrowskiego 30B, Wrocław, 53-238, Poland.
| | - Magdalena Leszko
- Department of Psychology, University of Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
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Lundin NB, Cowan HR, Singh DK, Moe AM. Lower cohesion and altered first-person pronoun usage in the spoken life narratives of individuals with schizophrenia. Schizophr Res 2023; 259:140-149. [PMID: 37127466 PMCID: PMC10524354 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2023.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Usage of computational tools to quantify language disturbances among individuals with psychosis is increasing, improving measurement efficiency and access to fine-grained constructs. However, few studies apply automated linguistic analysis to life narratives in this population. Such research could facilitate the measurement of psychosis-relevant constructs such as sense of agency, capacity to organize one's personal history, narrative richness, and perceptions of the roles that others play in one's life. Furthermore, research is needed to understand how narrative linguistic features relate to cognitive and social functioning. In the present study, individuals with schizophrenia (n = 32) and individuals without a psychotic disorder (n = 15) produced personal life narratives within the Indiana Psychiatric Illness Interview. Narratives were analyzed using the Coh-Metrix computational tool. Linguistic variables analyzed were indices of connections within causal and goal-driven speech (deep cohesion), unique word usage (lexical diversity), and pronoun usage. Individuals with schizophrenia compared to control participants produced narratives that were lower in deep cohesion, contained more first-person singular pronouns, and contained fewer first-person plural pronouns. Narratives did not significantly differ between groups in lexical diversity, third-person pronoun usage, or total word count. Cognitive-linguistic relationships emerged in the full sample, including significant correlations between greater working memory capacity and greater deep cohesion and lexical diversity. In the schizophrenia group, social problem-solving abilities did not correlate with linguistic variables but were associated with cognition. Findings highlight the relevance of psychotherapies which aim to promote recovery among individuals with psychosis through the construction of coherent life narratives and increasing agency and social connectedness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy B Lundin
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University, 1670 Upham Drive, Suite 460, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | - Henry R Cowan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University, 1670 Upham Drive, Suite 460, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | - Divnoor K Singh
- Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, 1585 Neil Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | - Aubrey M Moe
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University, 1670 Upham Drive, Suite 460, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Department of Psychology, The Ohio State University, 1835 Neil Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
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Cowan HR, Lundin NB, Moe AM, Breitborde NJK. Discrepancies between self and caregiver perceptions of agency in first-episode psychosis. J Psychiatr Res 2023; 162:220-227. [PMID: 37201222 PMCID: PMC10225345 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2023.05.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Personal agency-a key element of recovery from psychotic disorders-is formed and maintained in large part through interactions with others. Interactions with caregivers are particularly important in first-episode psychosis (FEP), as these interactions form the foundations for lifelong caregiving relationships. The present study examined shared understandings of agency (operationalized as efficacy to manage symptoms and social behaviors) within families affected by FEP. Individuals with FEP (n = 46) completed the Self-Efficacy Scale for Schizophrenia (SESS) and measures of symptom severity, social functioning, social quality of life, stigma, and discrimination. Caregivers (n = 42) completed a caregiver version of the SESS assessing perceptions of their affected relative's self-efficacy. Self-rated efficacy was higher than caregiver-rated efficacy in all domains (positive symptoms, negative symptoms, and social behavior). Self- and caregiver-rated efficacy correlated only in the social behavior domain. Self-rated efficacy was most associated with lower depression and stigmatization, whereas caregiver-rated efficacy was most associated with better social functioning. Psychotic symptoms did not relate to self- or caregiver-rated efficacy. Individuals with FEP and caregivers have discrepant perceptions of personal agency, perhaps because they base perceptions of agency on different sources of information. These findings highlight specific targets for psychoeducation, social skills training, and assertiveness training to develop shared understandings of agency and facilitate functional recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry R Cowan
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University, USA.
| | - Nancy B Lundin
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University, USA
| | - Aubrey M Moe
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University, USA; Psychology, The Ohio State University, USA
| | - Nicholas J K Breitborde
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University, USA; Psychology, The Ohio State University, USA
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Lysaker PH, Holm T, Kukla M, Wiesepape C, Faith L, Musselman A, Lysaker JT. Psychosis and the challenges to narrative identity and the good life: Advances from research on the integrated model of metacognition. JOURNAL OF RESEARCH IN PERSONALITY 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jrp.2022.104267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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Interactions between the cortical midline structures and sensorimotor network track maladaptive self-beliefs in clinical high risk for psychosis. SCHIZOPHRENIA 2022; 8:74. [PMID: 36114173 PMCID: PMC9481626 DOI: 10.1038/s41537-022-00279-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Individuals at clinical high risk for psychosis (CHR) report a maladaptive self-concept—with more negative and less positive self-beliefs—linked to clinical symptoms and functional impairment. Alterations have also been reported in brain networks associated with intrinsic (cortical midline structures, CMS) and extrinsic (sensorimotor network, SMN) self-processing. Theoretical accounts of multiple levels of self-experience in schizophrenia suggest that interactions between these networks would be relevant for self-beliefs. This study tested whether self-beliefs related to resting-state functional connectivity within and between the CMS and SMN. Participants were 56 individuals meeting CHR criteria and 59 matched healthy community participants (HC). Pearson correlations examined potential mediators and outcomes. The CHR group reported more negative and less positive self-beliefs. Greater resting-state functional connectivity between the posterior CMS (posterior cingulate cortex) and the SMN was associated with less positive self-beliefs in CHR, but more positive self-beliefs in HC. Attenuated negative symptoms and poorer social functioning were associated with CMS-SMN connectivity (trend level after FDR-correction) and self-beliefs. Reduced connectivity between the left and right PCC was associated with lower positive self-beliefs in CHR, although this effect was specific to very low levels of positive self-beliefs. Left-right PCC connectivity did not correlate with outcomes. Dynamic interactions between intrinsic and extrinsic self-processing supported positive self-beliefs in typically developing youth while undermining positive self-beliefs in CHR youth. Implications are discussed for basic self-fragmentation, narrative self-related metacognition, and global belief updating. Interventions for self-processing may be beneficial in the CHR syndrome.
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Pedersen AM, Straarup KN, Thomsen DK. "My life disappeared in illness": bipolar disorder and themes in narrative identity. Memory 2022; 30:857-868. [PMID: 35297312 DOI: 10.1080/09658211.2022.2051555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Bipolar Disorder (BD) has substantial consequences for the course of life and the formation of self and identity. In the present study, we extended the existing literature by examining narrative identity. Fifteen female outpatients with remitted BD and fifteen non-clinical control participants described past and future chapters in their life stories. The chapters were coded for agency, communion, redemption and contamination. Patients diagnosed with BD described their past chapters with lower agency, lower communion and more contamination compared to the control group. Contrary to our expectations, the future chapters described by the BD patients did not differ significantly from the control group. A focus on narrative identity may contribute to understanding the disorder and inspire interventions targeting personal recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Mai Pedersen
- Department of Psychology, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Center on Autobiographical Memory Research (CON AMORE), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Dorthe Kirkegaard Thomsen
- Department of Psychology, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Center on Autobiographical Memory Research (CON AMORE), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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15
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Dunlop WL, Lind M, Hopwood CJ. Synthesizing Contemporary Integrative Interpersonal Theory and the Narrative Identity Approach to Examine Personality Dynamics and Regulatory Processes. J Pers 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/jopy.12707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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16
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Kovács A, Ladányi B, Farkas N, Stempel L, Kiss D, Bittermann É, Rácz J. The recovery of homicidal people diagnosed with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder-An interpretative phenomenological analysis. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:951678. [PMID: 36741576 PMCID: PMC9892903 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.951678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Identity recovery in people diagnosed with schizophrenia who have committed homicide poses several difficulties. Premorbid mental illnesses, the experience of psychosis, and the absence of cohesive ego functions may result in the inability to integrate the homicidal act into self-identity. Problems with integration increase the risk of recidivism and further mental problems. The aim of the present research was to explore how homicidal people diagnosed with schizophrenia make sense of their actions, and how they identify with the homicide. METHOD Six semi-structured interviews were conducted at a long-term psychiatric home with people who had committed homicide and who had been diagnosed with schizophrenia. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA), an idiographic method rooted in phenomenologist traditions that focuses on how participants experience and make sense of events in their lives, and how those events affect their identity and sense of self. RESULTS Three personal experiential themes were established as a result of the analysis: (1) homicide and responsibility; (2) homicide and self; and (3) control over threats to self and self-evaluation. (1) Homicide was often reported to have been committed in a non-conscious, delusional state that may have led to the loss of self-determination. (2) Our interviewees struggled to integrate their acts into their identities. They distanced themselves from the crime or held multiple, parallel interpretations of the act. (3) Recovering patients experienced the constant threat of entering into a delusional reality and losing control. The importance of control was central to their self-evaluation. The patients appeared to distance themselves from the homicidal act and to regard their delusional selves as a threat to their lives. CONCLUSION Therapy aimed at bolstering self-control, supporting the integration of the fragmented self, and raising awareness of the connections between delusional reality and standard, intersubjective reality may be helpful in reducing the instability of the self. Therapy aimed at processing complex grief and loss of family is also needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asztrik Kovács
- Doctoral School of Psychology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary.,Institute of Psychology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Bence Ladányi
- Institute of Psychology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary.,Department of Criminal Investigation, Hungarian National Police Headquarters, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Noémi Farkas
- Institute of Psychology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Laura Stempel
- Institute of Psychology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Dániel Kiss
- Doctoral School of Psychology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | | | - József Rácz
- Institute of Psychology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary.,Department of Addictology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
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17
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Caretti V, Franquillo AC, Guccione C, Cuzzocrea G, Pecora R, Trani L, Carpentieri R, Cantiano A, Cinelli F, Betti E, Fontana A, Sideli L, Panaccione I, Brogna P, Caprì C, Di Cesare G, Ducci G. Integrating Psychophysiology within Clinical Practice: A Pilot Cross-sectional Study on Prodromal Symptoms of Schizophrenia, Emotion Regulation, and Personality Functioning. CLINICAL NEUROPSYCHIATRY 2021; 18:334-338. [PMID: 35096080 PMCID: PMC8785423 DOI: 10.36131/cnfioritieditore20210607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the association between prodromal symptoms of schizophrenia, autonomic activity, and personality functioning. METHOD 10 adolescents underwent semi-structured interviews assessing prodromal symptoms of schizophrenia and personality functioning. Cardiac activity was recorded at baseline, during the clinical interviews, and at recovery to assess concurrent changes in autonomic functioning. RESULTS During the assessment of prodromal symptoms of schizophrenia, participants increased sympathetic activation compared to the recovery condition, and reduced vagal activation compared to the assessment of interpersonal functioning. CONCLUSIONS The findings highlight the importance of integrating the autonomic assessment in clinical psychiatric and psychological practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Caretti
- Department of Human Sciences, LUMSA University, Rome, Italy
- Consorzio Universitario Humanitas, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Chiara Franquillo
- Department of Human Sciences, LUMSA University, Rome, Italy
- Consorzio Universitario Humanitas, Rome, Italy
| | - Camilla Guccione
- Department of Human Sciences, LUMSA University, Rome, Italy
- Consorzio Universitario Humanitas, Rome, Italy
| | - Gaia Cuzzocrea
- Department of Human Sciences, LUMSA University, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Lucrezia Trani
- Department of Human Sciences, LUMSA University, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Eleonora Betti
- Department of Human Sciences, LUMSA University, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Fontana
- Department of Human Sciences, LUMSA University, Rome, Italy
| | - Lucia Sideli
- Department of Human Sciences, LUMSA University, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Chiara Caprì
- Department of Mental Health, PIPSM, ASL Roma 1, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Ducci
- Department of Mental Health, PIPSM, ASL Roma 1, Rome, Italy
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18
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Dunlop WL. The cycle of life and story: Redemptive autobiographical narratives and prosocial behaviors. Curr Opin Psychol 2021; 43:213-218. [PMID: 34419896 DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2021.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Adults often understand their lives by constructing personal stories and then living into them. Time and time again, a positive relation has been found between the tendency to build redemptive personal stories wherein negative and challenging experiences ultimately give way to positive endings and prosocial behavior. Here, I review the relevant literature in the interest of advancing the notion that redemptive stories and prosociality exist in a virtuous cycle. Engaging in prosocial acts can stimulate the redemptive framing of one's past. By the same measure, once formed, individuals work to bring the story to life, and the ethos of redemption holds the potential to stimulate and sustain prosocial behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- William L Dunlop
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA; Department of Psychology, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark.
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