The credibility of case formulations for young people
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The credibility of case formulations for young people with mental health problems
IRAS ID
125135
Contact name
Nigel Jeffery
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
London South Bank University: Pro Dean Research
Research summary
The credibility of case formulations for young people with mental health problems
The study developed from the researcher’s own practice as a nurse working within NHS child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS). Case formulation is a feature of most psychotherapy models and provides the patient with the clinicians understanding of what their key problems are, how they relate to each other and how they may have developed.
The aim of the study is to detail the way adolescents with depression and anxiety (the most common psychiatric disorders in adolescence) understand their mental health problems. It is hoped that this information could be used to improve formulations and enhance the user experience. There is no previous research in this area; however evidence from wider research suggests improving the way clinicians present case formulations could enhance understanding, engagement and outcome.
The research study is the dissertation for the Professional Doctorate in Nursing course at London South Bank University and is self-funded by the researcher.
Potential subjects will be given information on the study following their initial assessment at an outer London CAMHS clinic. They will be informed throughout the study that access to CAMHS treatment is not related to the research. To ensure participant welfare potential participants experiencing high levels of distress, vulnerability or in an acute mental health crisis will be excluded from the study.
Due to the sensitivity of the area of study the research will use single semi-structured interviews audio recorded interview lasting up to one hour. The research will take up to 12 months and include up to 30 subjects aged 13-17. The interviews will take place at the above out-patient clinic and be conducted by an experienced CAMHS clinician. The transcripts of the interviews will be analysed using applied thematic analysis.
REC name
London - Camberwell St Giles Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
13/LO/1027
Date of REC Opinion
29 Jul 2013
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion