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Narrative Forewarnings: A Qualitative Analysis of the Themes Preceding Disorganized Speech in Schizophrenia

Authors :
Robert J. Bettis
Laura A. Faith
Ashlynn M. Beard
Brailee A. Whan
Ceouna M. Hegwood
Mahogany A. Monette
Evan J. Myers
Imani S. Linton
Bethany L. Leonhardt
Michelle P. Salyers
Kyle S. Minor
Source :
Behavioral Sciences, Vol 14, Iss 3, p 212 (2024)
Publication Year :
2024
Publisher :
MDPI AG, 2024.

Abstract

Disorganized speech is a critical barrier to recovery in schizophrenia, with profound negative impacts on one’s ability to engage with the world. Despite the limited efficacy of existing treatments in addressing disorganization, a qualitative analysis of what leads to disorganization in patient narratives has been lacking. This study addresses this gap through inductive thematic analysis of 30 narrative interviews with individuals with schizophrenia, matched based on whether Formal Thought Disorder (FTD) is present. Through this analysis, we identified four core themes (alienation, interpersonal tension, personal benchmarks, and adverse experiences) and eight subthemes. Our findings suggest that disorganization may serve as a protective mechanism against psychological distress and highlight how the severity of FTD influences these themes. Alienation, particularly due to illness-related stigma, emerged more prominently in those with FTD. The themes of personal benchmarks and interpersonal tension pointed towards a heightened sensitivity to social interactions and self-perception among those with schizophrenia. Adverse experiences, encompassing past challenges, suggest a potential link between trauma and symptom exacerbation. Our qualitative analysis of what themes precede disorganized speech has implications for tailoring psychotherapy. By considering an individual’s specific triggers and level of disorganization, therapy may be more effectively targeted to improve recovery-based outcomes. By identifying themes within patient narratives, this study advances our understanding of the qualitative aspects preceding disorganized speech in schizophrenia, paving the way for more personalized and effective recovery-focused interventions.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
2076328X
Volume :
14
Issue :
3
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
Behavioral Sciences
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.4945e7cb58684618b20f1de534ce5d86
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14030212