· Morera, Tirma, Sandra Bucci, Chloe Randal, Moya Barrett, & Daniel Pratt (2017). Exploring views about mindfulness groups for voice-hearing from the perspective of service users and staff: A Q-methodology study. Psychotherapy Research,27(2), 179-188. (doi: 10.1080/10503307.2015.1085657) (Link: https://doi.org/10.1080/10503307.2015.1085657)
Abstract:
Objectives: Despite prevailing beliefs about the potential benefits and harmfulness of mindfulness for people who hear voices, there is a paucity of research into staff and service user views. Q-methodology was used to explore views about mindfulness groups for voice-hearers. Method: Opportunistic sampling of mental healthcare staff (N = 14) and service users with psychosis (N = 17). Both samples were analysed using principle components factor analysis to identify the range of attitudes held by staff and service users. Results: Staff participants were particularly knowledgeable and interested in mindfulness. A single staff consensus factor was found suggesting mindfulness is helpful, and not harmful for mental health, but uncertainty surrounded its usefulness for voice-hearers. Service users held four distinct attitudes: (i) mindfulness helps to calm a racing mind; (ii) mindfulness helps to manage stress; (iii) mindfulness improves well-being, and does not alter the brain, reality beliefs, or cause madness; and (iv) mindfulness helps with managing thoughts, fostering acceptance, and is acceptable when delivered in a group format. Conclusions: Staff viewed mindfulness groups for psychosis as helpful, not harmful, but were uncertain about their utility. Consistent with previous research, service users viewed mindfulness groups as useful to promote well-being and reduce distress for individuals experiencing psychosis.
Daniel Pratt <daniel.pratt@manchester.ac.uk> is in the School of Psychological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
You must log in to post a comment.