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Article
Publication date: 10 September 2024

Aderonke Oyetunji, Kailee Bunte and Val Bellman

This paper aims to illuminate the issue of workplace violence (WPV) against psychiatry residents. Workplace violence is known to negatively impact physical and emotional…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to illuminate the issue of workplace violence (WPV) against psychiatry residents. Workplace violence is known to negatively impact physical and emotional well-being, professional development and the quality of the care that mental health professionals provide to patients. The authors discuss the prevalence of, risk factors for and consequences of WPV against psychiatry residents, as well as the need for support and resources to help residents cope with the emotional challenges of their job.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is a review of the literature on WPV against psychiatry residents, and includes studies on its prevalence, associated risk factors and consequences.

Findings

Psychiatry residents face a heightened risk of WPV, including physical and verbal attacks, which can harm their mental and physical health and disrupt their continuity of care. Factors that contribute to WPV against psychiatry residents include exposure to aggressive or violent behaviors, inadequate training in WPV, understaffing, the stigmatization of mental illnesses, and discriminatory treatment. Furthermore, psychiatry residents who encounter WPV may develop negative emotions and attitudes toward their patients, which can compromise the care they provide.

Research limitations/implications

The inherent heterogeneity of study designs highlighted in this review could hinder the establishment of definitive conclusions about the impact of workplace violence on psychiatry residents. A focus on studies published in English may inadvertently exclude relevant literature in other languages, potentially limiting the comprehensiveness of study findings.

Originality/value

This paper highlights resident physicians’ personal experiences with and perceptions of WPV encountered during residency training. In response, potential solutions are proposed to address WPV, including increased support for resident physicians, mandatory reporting of WPV incidents, and a cultural shift toward zero tolerance for WPV. In addition, the paper raises awareness of the limited research on this topic and the importance of further investigation.

Details

The Journal of Mental Health Training, Education and Practice, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1755-6228

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 15 August 2024

Michael Haslam and Keir Harding

This discursive paper considers the use of restrictive practices in mental health inpatient settings and how these are often prioritised over relational approaches, especially…

Abstract

Purpose

This discursive paper considers the use of restrictive practices in mental health inpatient settings and how these are often prioritised over relational approaches, especially where the diagnostic label of personality disorder intersects with risk.

Design/methodology/approach

Key concepts from Orwell’s 1984 are studied for their pertinence to mental health inpatient settings, supporting our argument that restrictive practices arise from dichotomous thinking and externalised fears.

Findings

Drawing upon Orwellian themes of power, social control and digital surveillance from 1984, the authors highlight the role of fear in perpetuating restrictive practices under a guise of benevolent care in mental health inpatient settings, especially for those who are diagnosed with a personality disorder. A lack of preparedness to work with complexity in such environments, coupled with a deficit in self-reflexivity and critical thinking, can exacerbate challenges.

Research limitations/implications

To transcend damaging dichotomies and reduce restrictive practices in inpatient settings, the authors make the argument for the adequate preparation and education of the mental health nurse and authentic, collaborative, user-involved care.

Originality/value

The authors use Orwell’s novel to support a critical discourse around those damaging dichotomies and inherent contradictions that contribute to restrictive practice in contemporary mental health settings and to question whose interests’ these restrictive practices serve.

Details

Mental Health Review Journal, vol. 29 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1361-9322

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 16 July 2024

Lindsay Tulloch, Helen Walker and Robin Ion

Incidents of violence and aggression are a regular occurrence within adult forensic mental health inpatient settings and often lead to the use of restrictive practices such as…

Abstract

Purpose

Incidents of violence and aggression are a regular occurrence within adult forensic mental health inpatient settings and often lead to the use of restrictive practices such as seclusion. Such events are frequently attributed to the complexity of the patients. Research commonly focuses on patient’s characteristics and their association with seclusion use. Less attention has been centred on forensic mental health nurses’ attitudes to seclusion and the association of nursing staff characteristics.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional survey was undertaken using a standardised questionnaire, “Survey of Nurses’ Attitudes to Seclusion”. Responses were received from n = 147 nurses at a high secure forensic mental health hospital in the UK.

Findings

Key findings indicate that most participants believed seclusion should remain part of clinical practice. A correlation was identified between forensic mental health nurses’ attitudes to seclusion use and their characteristics: gender, age range, educational level and experience.

Practical implications

This paper presents novel information on seclusion reduction opportunities through modifiable workforce factors such as gender-sensitive rostering and staff training and development. Furthermore, recruitment and retention strategies should be prioritised so forensic mental health is perceived as an attractive career and a safe workplace.

Originality/value

The paucity of research in this area has prompted calls for further research to explore nursing staff characteristics and seclusion use. This is particularly important now due to the current global difficulty in the recruitment and retention of mental health nurses.

Details

The Journal of Forensic Practice, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2050-8794

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 3 July 2024

Gilbert Azuela, Daniel Sutton and Kirsten Van Kessel

Sensory modulation intervention involves using calming and grounding sensory stimuli to support coping with distress and intense emotions. Evaluating the impact of sensory…

Abstract

Purpose

Sensory modulation intervention involves using calming and grounding sensory stimuli to support coping with distress and intense emotions. Evaluating the impact of sensory modulation is challenging in inpatient settings due to the numerous variables influencing outcomes in ward environments. This study aims to determine the impact of sensory modulation across all organisational levels including service users, staff confidence and attitudes, ward climate and seclusion events.

Design/methodology/approach

Organisational case studies were conducted in two Aotearoa New Zealand inpatient mental health services, using qualitative and quantitative data to explore the effects of a sensory modulation programme.

Findings

Results showed that sensory modulation enhanced staff knowledge and confidence in fostering therapeutic relationships and reducing restrictive practices, positively impacted ward climate and provided service users with sensory strategies to use in everyday life.

Practical implications

The findings captured the complexity of implementation and impact of sensory modulation programmes at individual, group and organisational levels. It is important to recognise the influencing factors and impact of sensory modulation across all levels of service delivery.

Originality/value

Organisational case study methodology offered a unique approach to evaluating the impact of sensory modulation within inpatient mental health services. Data analysis suggests that in addition to managing acute service user distress, sensory modulation impacts broader staff, team and service level outcomes.

Details

The Journal of Mental Health Training, Education and Practice, vol. 19 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1755-6228

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 April 2024

Lorna Montgomery and Adi Cooper

Institutional abuse is a worldwide phenomenon with the UK also subject to several high-profile abuse scandals perpetuated on people with learning disabilities and/or mental health…

Abstract

Purpose

Institutional abuse is a worldwide phenomenon with the UK also subject to several high-profile abuse scandals perpetuated on people with learning disabilities and/or mental health conditions living within institutional settings. This study aims to provide a broad perspective of safeguarding practices within institutional care to inform practice and service development in this area.

Design/methodology/approach

A narrative overview was undertaken of a range of empirical evidence, discussion papers, enquiry reports, reports from regulatory bodies and professional guidance to explore safeguarding practices within institutional care for individuals with learning disabilities and/or mental health conditions.

Findings

A range of literature was identified that exposed and explored abuse in this context. Three key themes were identified: failings within institutional care; safeguarding issues and concerns; and good practice within institutional care. Whilst guidance is available, standards are explicit and protocols facilitate improvement potential in this area, a consistent message was that statutory recommendations for reform have not been effective.

Originality/value

This paper provides an important resource for practitioners and service providers involved in institutional care. An accessible overview of both the empirical evidence and grey literature on adult safeguarding within institutional settings is provided, along with a range of standards and resources that specify practice in these settings.

Details

The Journal of Adult Protection, vol. 26 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1466-8203

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 29 April 2024

Laura Khalil and Joao Da Silva Guerreiro

The purpose of this paper is to examine the current state of the literature on the variables associated with self-harm and aggression in women who committed a criminal offence.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the current state of the literature on the variables associated with self-harm and aggression in women who committed a criminal offence.

Design/methodology/approach

Studies were identified through online databases, namely, PsycINFO, PubMed, ERIC and EBSCOhost, as well as manual searches of reference lists of the selected studies. The target population included women who committed a criminal offence and have engaged in self-harm and aggressive behaviors during their incarceration, either in correctional institutions or in forensic psychiatric settings.

Findings

Of the 1,178 studies identified, nine met inclusion criteria. The studies were conducted in six different countries and included data from 6360 female participants. Few studies examine self-harm and aggression in women who committed a criminal offence which speaks to the still sparse literature on this topic. This review of the association between self-harm and aggression in women offenders highlights the finding that a small group of women is often involved in both self-harm and aggression. The authors have identified possible psychological factors associated with women engaging in both self-harm and aggression. The findings also reveal a possible connection between types of aggressive behaviors and specific time periods during sentences or stays in forensic psychiatry.

Practical implications

The findings of this scoping review have clinical implications which may be considered by both researchers and the case management teams of women involved in both self-harm and aggression.

Originality/value

Despite the limited number of studies examining self-harm and aggression in women, this scoping review highlights gaps in the literature as well as notable psychological correlates of women who engage in self-harm and aggression.

Details

The Journal of Forensic Practice, vol. 26 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2050-8794

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 July 2024

Rebecca Mir and Niall Power

To ensure health, social and criminal justice services are suited to the complex and dynamic needs of people with learning/intellectual disabilities (LD) at risk of offending, it…

Abstract

Purpose

To ensure health, social and criminal justice services are suited to the complex and dynamic needs of people with learning/intellectual disabilities (LD) at risk of offending, it is important to systematically analyse the needs and characteristics of this population. This study aimed to analyse the patterns of referrals to a single community forensic LD service before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

A structured audit was conducted on all referrals to the service (n = 37) across a three-year period (May 2019 – end of July 2022).

Findings

The majority of the overall sample were male (36, 97%) and Caucasian (24, 65%) with a mean age of 32.9 years and mild LD. The most prevalent current offending type was sexual offending (17, 44%), whereas the most prevalent historical offending type was violence (17, 35%). The most common service/function offered by the service was advice and consultation to other professionals and agencies (10, 19%). The service user and forensic/legal characteristics measured did not differ significantly before and during COVID-19.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the project is the first to systematically analyse and compare community forensic LD service referral patterns before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study also provides an example of how a structured audit tool can be used to benefit individual services and the wider literature on assessing the needs and characteristics of adults with LD who live in the community and are at risk of [re]offending.

Details

Journal of Intellectual Disabilities and Offending Behaviour, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2050-8824

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 26 August 2024

Achbani Ahmed, Lahlou Laila, Laaraj Hicham, Ouhamou Mina, Mouhadi Khalid, Salahddine Zineb, Elomary Omar, Elabbani Mohamed, Ramdani Fatima Zahra, Doufik Jalal, Amine Tbatou and Rammouz Ismail

This study aims to describe and analyze the factors associated with dependence and motivation to stop smoking in patients with schizophrenia.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to describe and analyze the factors associated with dependence and motivation to stop smoking in patients with schizophrenia.

Design/methodology/approach

This descriptive, analytical study was conducted between October 2021 and April 2023 at two psychiatric centers in Morocco. The study population consisted of 274 smokers diagnosed with schizophrenia, who were examined just before their discharge. In addition to sociodemographic and economic data, tobacco use status and clinical information, the authors assessed dependence with Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND), motivation to quit and depression.

Findings

Around three-quarters (74%) smoked more than 10 cigarettes a day, with a mean FTND score of 5.61 (±1.94). Dependence was reported in 76% of smokers. More than two-thirds (69%) had made at least one attempt to quit, and almost all participants (99%) had done so without medical assistance. Nicotine dependence was associated with income, illness duration, motivation to stop smoking and depression. In addition, lower income, level of education, number of hospitalizations, attempts to stop smoking and nicotine dependence were associated with motivation to quit tobacco use. However, depression was not associated with motivation to stop smoking.

Research limitations/implications

The present study has the following limitations: the cross-sectional nature of the study does not allow for temporal evaluation, the sampling technique does not allow for generalization of the results, participants’ responses may be subjective despite the use of validated psychometric scales.

Practical implications

The results of this research have important public health implications: Duration of schizophrenia progression was associated with nicotine dependence – highlighting the need to offer help as soon as possible after diagnosis, as a preventative measure; Calgary depression score was a factor associated with increased dependence – suggesting that screening and additional help for people with co-existing mental health problems could be important. Similarly, the onset of depression after the development of schizophrenia should be monitored.

Originality/value

The authors have further searched the literature and have not found similar studies. The absence of such studies justifies the significance of this research, and its results will be valuable for publication to guide researchers in the treatment of tobacco dependence and, furthermore, to guide the preventive efforts of health authorities in Morocco. Additionally, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first of its kind in Morocco and among the few in North Africa.

Details

Journal of Public Mental Health, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1746-5729

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 10 October 2022

Shakeela Asif, Soulat Khan, Tayyab Ali Butt, Anisa Mehmood, Aimen Zulfiqar and Tahira Mubashar

This study aims to probe the relationship of facial disfigurement, stigmatization, burdensome, hopelessness and suicidal ideation in acid attack survivors and to scrutinize the…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to probe the relationship of facial disfigurement, stigmatization, burdensome, hopelessness and suicidal ideation in acid attack survivors and to scrutinize the mediating role of perceived burdensome and hopelessness in connection between facial disfigurement, social stigmatization and suicidal ideation among acid attack survivors.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected from Holy Family Hospital which is located in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, Acid Survivors Foundation and social media sites. Purposive sampling technique was used to collect the sample. Sample comprised of N = 74 acid attack survivors. English version of discrimination and stigma scale, interpersonal needs questionnaire perceived burdensome scale, suicidal ideation attributes scale, Beck hopelessness scale and observer-rated facial disfigurement scale were used for the assessment. Statistical analysis includes correlation and mediation analysis through process macro.

Findings

Results indicated significant positive relationship between facial disfigurements, unfair treatment, stopping self and perceived burdensome with suicidal ideation, whereas overcoming stigma, hopelessness and positive treatment present a negative relationship with suicidal ideation. Results of the current study also showed that burdensome and hopelessness appear as significant mediator in association between facial disfigurement, social discrimination and suicidal ideation. This study provides the awareness about how by decreasing the hopelessness and perceived burdensome and resolving social stigmatization can minimize suicidal ideation and risks accompanying it.

Originality/value

This research covers a topic that violates human rights, it is a topic that never gets old and people are still facing its effects.

Details

International Journal of Human Rights in Healthcare, vol. 17 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2056-4902

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 6 August 2024

Duke Biber and Ashlee Davis

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of a 10-week positive psychology course on college student stress, anxiety, self-compassion, resilience and health behaviors.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of a 10-week positive psychology course on college student stress, anxiety, self-compassion, resilience and health behaviors.

Design/methodology/approach

This study implemented a 10-week positive psychology program that included ten one-week modules. Each module consisted of a reading on a given positive psychology topic, a guided learning slideshow, a video to reinforce topical understanding and individual reflection or application exercises. Participants completed pre and postintervention measures, including the perceived stress scale, generalized anxiety disorder-7, self-compassion scale, brief resilience scale and wellness behavior inventory.

Findings

A total of 48 students consented to participate in the study, of which 35 completed the 10-week positive psychology online intervention as well as the pre and postsurveys (27.1% attrition rate). There were no statistically significant differences between pre and postresponses for any of the outcome scales. However, there was a trend toward a decrease in perceived stress and generalized anxiety, as well as a trend toward an increase in self-compassion and health behaviors from pre to posttest.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitation of this study was design and sample size. Although it was a pilot study, future research should consider a randomized control trial, including pre and postevaluation and blind comparison group. Finally, this intervention was only implemented in the online, asynchronous format. Future research might consider comparing face-to-face, asynchronous online and synchronous online modalities.

Practical implications

Future implementation should include a more rigorous design, such as a comparison group with randomization as well as a larger sample size.

Social implications

Given the previous effectiveness of positive psychological interventions on health behaviors, continued research may use direct measures of health behavior engagement throughout the intervention (Biber and Ellis, 2019). This study provides other researchers and practitioners with a model for utilization with middle, high and university students.

Originality/value

This study used open-access content that was free of charge to students to promote positive mental health and health behavior change.

Details

Mental Health and Digital Technologies, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2976-8756

Keywords

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