Date of Award
12-2010
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Abstract
The purpose of this qualitative study is to develop a theoretical model that describes perceptions about quality or life (QOL) and maintenance of mental wellness as held by rural dwellers with serious mental illness (SMI). The National Institute of Mental Health (2006), approximately 1 in 4 adults will have a diagnosable mental illness in any given year and within this population, 6 percent will have SMI. Furthermore, mental bealth providers are scarce in rural areas and isolation and poverty decrease the likelihood of individuals with SMI obtaining services. Significant gaps in knowledge exist related to evidence-based psychiatric treatments and services in rural environments. It is unknown if SMI impacts a person's perceptions about QOL. To understand these issues, one must first discover how an individual with SMI defines QOL, how they attain and maintain QOL, and lastly how these impact their mental wellness. Fourteen participants were interviewed (3 male, 11 females). A total of 18 interviews were completed; second and third interviews were conducted for validation of findings. The audio-taped, transcribed interviews were analyzed using grounded theory methods described by Strauss and Corbin (1998). An axial paradigm emerged from categories which evolved into a theoretical model. The model, QOL as Perceived by Rural Dwellers with SM!, presents the core variable of 'having enough' and its six properties. These six properties were 1) stable health, 2) interpersonal relationships, 3) spiritual engagement, 4) meaningful/purposeful doing, 5) environmental resources, and 6) financial resources. Conclusions are; QOL and mental wellness are integral to one another, and individuals with SMI can experience QOL in a rural environment. Mental health professionals need; awareness of and skills to assess the core variables six properties which support QOL, to encourage consumer's engagement in trusting relationships, and to assist them in accessing resources that can expand their QOL and wellness experience. From this study's discoveries evolved recommendations for the development of evidenced-based treatments, which reflect their rural context and culture (i.e. peer support group). Mental health providers should work with consumers to create the acceptable, simplified and balanced life that they personally desire.
Recommended Citation
Townsend, Deborah G., "Quality of life as perceived by rural dwellers with a serious mental illness" (2010). Theses and Dissertations. 7421.
https://commons.und.edu/theses/7421