Citation

Brenisin K, Trumm A, Akinwande E, Breen K. J. Forensic Pract. 2022; 24(3): 270-286.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2022, Emerald Group Publishing)

DOI

10.1108/JFP-12-2021-0063

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

PURPOSE: The concept of inequality refers to being treated unfairly in society and its impact on mental illness has been explored primarily using a quantitative research approach. Patients' lived experiences of inequalities prior to their admission to a secure care setting need to be addressed with a higher priority as they can serve to improve our understanding of the factors underlying the development of mental illness at a personal level. The aim of this study is to explore participant's views on whether for them the experience of inequality is associated with the development of mental illness.

DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: A qualitative study, using a thematic analytical approach, was carried out to explore patients' lived experiences of inequalities. A total of 11 participants, who were receiving treatment in a UK secure mental health hospital, were recruited into this study. The concept of inequality was explored using semi-structured interviews.

FINDINGS: Data showed that patients had experienced a variety of inequalities which had negative impact on their mental health. Four main themes were identified from thematic textual analysis - abuse and its impact, a lack of support, the issue of labelling and the importance of understanding. Practical implications: Data showed that patients had experienced a variety of inequalities which had negative impact on their mental health. Four main themes were identified from thematic textual analysis - abuse and its impact, a lack of support, the issue of labelling and the importance of understanding.

ORIGINALITY/VALUE: This is the first study, to the best of the authors' knowledge, to consider intersectionality and admission to mental health units by interviewing patients in secure mental health setting. © 2022, Emerald Publishing Limited.

Language: en

Keywords

adult; human; mental health; domestic violence; suicide; sexual abuse; female; male; transgender; Mental health; depression; social isolation; qualitative research; Qualitative research; mental disease; automutilation; mental health center; Inequality; forensic science; physical abuse; Article; personal experience; semi structured interview; thematic analysis; emotional abuse; Forensic practice; attention deficit hyperactivity disorder; Intersectionality; intersectionality; Secure care; domestic abuse; social inequality; experience of abuse and its impacts; experience of inequality; forensic practice; importance of understanding; issue of labelling; lack of support; traumatic experience