Abstract
Main Research Project: Retelling the stories of past illness experiences: A qualitative exploration of childhood experiences in the development of health anxietyObjectives
Health anxiety has been explained from both a cognitive-behavioural and interpersonal perspective with research suggesting that some causal mechanisms include intergenerational transmission of illness beliefs, illness experiences in childhood, and an anxious attachment style. A key issue with this research is the lack of the voice and understanding of those who are health anxious. This study aimed to investigate childhood experiences in the development of health anxiety from their perspective.
Methods
A qualitative approach was taken, using thematic analysis to explore meaningful experiences of health and illness, and how people think about their health as an adult. Seventeen participants were recruited through social media and advertisement with charities. The topic was investigated using semi-structured interviews.
Results
Four main themes were generated, with the fourth split into two subthemes. Participants grew up with family scripts of 1) Health is Paramount and childhood illness experiences that were characterised by 2) A sense of isolation and generated 3) mistrust of others in illness. This leads to 4) Control: Seeking Safety from Powerlessness which is made up of 4a) the ghost of powerlessness, where feeling from health experiences in childhood are retriggered by health worries as an adult, and 4b) “A double edged sword”: my version of seeking safety.
Conclusions
The themes fit well with the existing literature but add further richness that could be used to elaborate current models. This is discussed along with ideas for further research and clinical implications.
| Date of Award | 20 Sept 2024 |
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| Original language | English |
| Awarding Institution |
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| Supervisor | Jo Daniels (Supervisor) |