Exploring narratives of young people after the Tree of Life group
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Weathering the storm: The construction and deconstruction of the stories adolescents tell about themselves whilst in an inpatient psychiatric ward
IRAS ID
232164
Contact name
Sophie Parham
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Canterbury Christ Church University
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 6 months, days
Research summary
The research question explores what stories young people tell following an inpatient admissions to a psychiatric hospital and experience of the Tree of Life group. It is known from the evidence base that negative stories can be constructed that focus on risk and problems narratives (Larsen 2005: p, 206). Such negative stories can be created through a number of events that young people with mental health difficulties experience and admission to an inpatient ward serves to further confirm such stories. Furthermore, this can lead to the disruption of the development of a positive self concept which is already disrupted in adolescent years due to the dramatic physical, psychological,social and environmental changes that occur during this time (Demo, 1992).
There is currently little research into interventions that may help to deconstruct the negative narratives that are created when people experience mental health difficulties. However, it is suggested that collective narrative practices, such as The Tree of Life group, which focus on strengths and other explanations for difficulties in life may help to deconstruct the illness narrative by thickening alternative, 'thinner' stories of resilience (Gilbert, 2015). It is said that thickening stories of strength and resilience may aide the development of a positive self concept which is to an improved recovery process and increased self esteem (Gilbert, 2015).
The main area of study is adolescent mental health and the use of psychological interventions on inpatient wards.The study aims to recruit 10 adolescents who have experienced the ToL group whilst an inpatient in hospitals across The South London and Maudsley NHS Trust.
The Tree of Life group (Ncube, 2006) runs for one hour a week for 6 weeks. The participants will be required to attend each group and then participate in an interview at the end of the series of groups.
REC name
London - City & East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
18/LO/0353
Date of REC Opinion
7 Apr 2018
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion