Caregivers and Young Adults with Mental Illness: Perspectives on Listening Needs and Quality of Life
Graduation Date
2011
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Document Form
Degree Name
Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy
Department
Occupational Therapy
Department or Program Chair
Ruth Ramsey, EdD, OTR/L
Thesis Advisor
Janis Davis, PhD, OTR/L
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: This study explored the perspectives of young adults with mental illness and caregivers concerning listening behaviors and needs. The study focused on how listening behaviors and needs impact the quality of life of individuals with mental illness and their participation in meaningful activities. Acquiring knowledge about perspectives of listening allows occupational therapists to encourage and facilitate effective communication between young adults with mental illness and their caregivers to promote quality of life and participation in occupations.
METHOD: A mixed methods, non-experimental, exploratory design was used in this study. A survey (n=14) and focus group (n=5) of young adults with mental illness between the ages of 18-22 years were conducted to explore the perspectives of their listening needs. A survey (n=14) and focus group (n=5) of caregivers for persons with mental illness were conducted to explore their ability to listen and their listening experiences with their loved ones.
RESULTS: Young adult surveys reported that their caregivers do not meet their listening needs (47%) and not feeling listened to negatively impacts their desire to participate in meaningful activities (80%). The young adults also reported their caregivers could listen better (93%). Caregivers reported a number of barriers when listening to young adults with mental illness including staying calm, handling delusional thinking, and setting limits.
CONCLUSION: Young adults with mental illness do not feel their listening needs are met by their caregivers. Further training and facilitation for caregivers and young adults with mental illness in effective communication can address this need.