| Learning Objective #1: Describe engulfment theory and the changes to self-concept that may occur as part of the illness experience | |||
| Learning Objective #2: Identify strategies that support healthy aspects of self-concept and may ameliorate engulfment in a mentally ill identity |
OBJECTIVE
The primary objective was to use engulfment theory to describe the changes to self-concept that may occur as individuals with first episode schizophrenia (FES)incorporate the illness experience into their identity. Specifically, aspects of self-concept were assessed for differences across the three developmental phases of engulfment. Secondary objectives were to explore relationships among engulfment, self-concept and demographic characteristics, and to provide preliminary normative data for use of the Modified Engulfment Scale in a first episode population.
DESIGN
A cross-sectional design was employed.
POPULATION, SAMPLE, SETTING
The sample consisted of 45 young adults hospitalized for a first episode of schizophrenia at an urban mental health facility.
CONCEPT OR VARIABLES STUDIED TOGETHER
Engulfment was measured using the Modified Engulfment Scale (MES). Self-concept was assessed by the Tennessee Self-Concept Scale: 2nd Edition (TSCS:2).
METHODS
This was a secondary analysis of data obtained through self-report measures of self-concept and engulfment.
FINDINGS
Key findings suggest that particular aspects of self-concept were significantly different between the early and late phases of engulfment. In addition, education and social activity were negatively and significantly correlated with engulfment (r=-.27, p=0.05). Volunteer activity was positively and significantly correlated with overall self-concept (r=.32, p=0.02).
CONCLUSIONS
Young adults recovering from a first episode of schizophrenia are vulnerable to negative changes in self-concept as they incorporate mental illness into their identity. Findings suggest that particular aspects of self-concept may be most vulnerable during the illness experience and that education, social activity and volunteering may act as protective factors in the engulfment process. Preliminary normative data was obtained for use of the MES in a FES population.
IMPLICATIONS
Nurses are in a key position to form partnerships and develop strategies that support healthy aspects of self-concept and prevent engulfment. These findings can help to inform clinical practice, future research and mental health care policy.
Back to Assisting People with a Persistent Mental Illness
Back to 37th Biennial Convention - Scientific Session
Sigma Theta Tau International