Impact of ARMS on hope and optimism
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Exploring the impact of receiving an ‘At Risk Mental State’ label on individuals’ hope and optimism and clinicians’ strategies for fostering hope and optimism.
IRAS ID
356467
Contact name
Hannah Hammam
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Hertfordshire
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 4 months, 30 days
Research summary
This study aims to explore individuals’ experiences of learning that they are at risk of developing psychosis and how this may affect their sense of hope and optimism for the future. Additionally, it seeks to understand how clinicians navigate the challenge of fostering and maintaining hope in clients identified as being at risk of developing psychosis.
By gaining a deeper understanding of the impact of an At Risk Mental State (ARMS) label on hope and optimism and identifying effective ways for clinicians to communicate this information while nurturing hope, the study will contribute to refining clinical practices. Improved communication strategies will better support clients' emotional well-being and provide insights into how clinicians and clients can collaboratively build resilience in the context of ARMS.
This study will employ a qualitative research design, using semi-structured interviews. A sample of up to 20 participants will be included, divided into two groups. The first group will consist of clinicians from the Hertfordshire Partnership University Trust (HPFT) ARMS Team who have experience informing individuals about their risk of developing psychosis. The second group will include individuals aged 18-35 who have received an ARMS label and are currently receiving support from the HPFT ARMS Team.
Participants will be invited to discuss their experiences of giving or receiving an ARMS diagnosis and its relationship to their sense of hope and optimism. Interviews will be conducted either in person or remotely (via Microsoft Teams) in accordance with security and data protection guidelines set by the University and HPFT. The interviews will be transcribed, and thematic analysis will be conducted using NVivo software.REC name
Wales REC 6
REC reference
25/WA/0234
Date of REC Opinion
21 Aug 2025
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion