Abstract
Meta-dehumanisation and self-dehumanisation are emerging phenomena within the context of psychosis for understanding people’s experiences of feeling treated as less than or different to human, and internalising these attitudes themselves. Studies have identified that people diagnosed with psychosis are highly dehumanised within society, with indications that interactions with healthcare professionals (HCPs) may contribute to feelings of distress in this population.The present study explored the subjective experiences of feeling dehumanised by interactions with HCPs among people diagnosed with psychosis. Interviews were completed with fifteen people who self-identified as having received a diagnosis of psychosis. Qualitative data was analysed using reflexive thematic analysis from a critical realist, post positivist stance, with input from a member of the research team with lived experience of psychosis.
Three core themes were produced: 1) Feeling Dehumanised by a Powerful and Overwhelming System: “You Have No Voice”, 2) Paradoxical Consequences for Recovery: “They Make you More Ill”, and 3) “It Lights a Fire in Me”: Forging New Relationships with the System.
These findings align with and extend previous research, offering important clinical implications around power differentials within the healthcare system, as well as training of HCPs around the potential consequences of dehumanising interactions for recovery. A call for the humanisation of healthcare for people diagnosed with psychosis is made.
| Date of Award | 20 Sept 2024 |
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| Original language | English |
| Awarding Institution |
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| Supervisor | Paul Chadwick (Supervisor) |