Beliefs about Voices in Psychosis: The Role of Schema Functioning.
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Beliefs about Voices in Psychosis: The Role of Schema Functioning.
IRAS ID
247414
Contact name
Brittany Joy Davenport
Contact email
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
N/A, N/A
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 3 months, 30 days
Research summary
Hearing voices can be a personal experience, with some individuals experiencing voices as extremely distressing, whereas others report feeling reassured and seek contact with their voice(s) (Chadwick & Birchwood, 1994). The purpose of the present research is to study the relationship between ‘voice hearers’ beliefs about their voice(s), and schemas, which is an under researched area. Schemas are the underlying ideas or assumptions we have about ourselves, other people, and the world. Through developing a better understanding of the pathways involved in the development and maintenance of hearing voices, this research intends to help with developing psychological therapies for this patient population.\nTo date, one study has investigated the relationship between beliefs about voice(s) and schemas. This study found that schemas, particularly those regarding the self, are potentially important in the formation of a range of beliefs about voices (Thomas et al., 2013). The present study aims to extend this by replicating Thomas et al’s study, and including one additional questionnaire. Participants will be invited to complete six questionnaires asking about their voice-hearing experience, beliefs about their voice(s), and general beliefs they may hold about themselves or others. It is hoped all questionnaires can be completed within a 1-hour appointment at the service-base they are attending, or an NHS building. Potential participants must currently experience hearing voices; have experienced hearing voices for at least one year to date; and as a consequence of hearing voices, have received some support from mental health services during this period.\nThis primary aim is to determine whether there is a relationship between schemas and the beliefs people hold about their voice(s). Secondary, we will determine whether there is an association between the beliefs an individual holds about their voice(s), and the relationship they have with their voices.\n
REC name
Wales REC 5
REC reference
18/WA/0264
Date of REC Opinion
28 Aug 2018
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion