Exploring stories of occupational engagement in a regional secure unit

Morris, Karen ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9272-4994 , Cox, Diane ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2691-6423 and Ward, Kath ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2705-6878 (2016) Exploring stories of occupational engagement in a regional secure unit. Journal of Forensic Psychiatry and Psychology, 27 (5). pp. 684-697.

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Abstract

This paper focuses on the occupational experiences of five men living within a forensic mental health unit over a year. This study used a descriptive qualitative case study methodology to explore the meaning and value placed on daily life (activities, occupations and routines), and how this changed over time. The men’s stories showed a complex picture of their experiences of daily life. This study demonstrated the impact of the environment on the men and the ongoing challenge of the need to balance treatment/therapy with security demands and opportunities. Three interrelated themes were identified: 1. Power and Occupation; 2. Therapy or Punishment; 3. Occupational Opportunities within Restrictions. These findings serve as a reminder to clinical teams to reassess the value of occupations attributed by their patients and the impact of the secure environment, whist also acknowledging the potential for occupations to have a negative impact on wellbeing.

Item Type:	Article
Journal / Publication Title:	Journal of Forensic Psychiatry and Psychology
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis (Routledge)
ISSN:	1478-9957
Departments:	Academic Departments > Health, Psychology & Social Studies (HPSS) > Rehabilitation
Additional Information:	PubMed: 27695388. PMC: PMC5020334.
Depositing User:	Anna Lupton
Date Deposited:	26 Apr 2016 10:59
Last Modified:	12 Jan 2024 15:45
URI:	https://insight.cumbria.ac.uk/id/eprint/2103

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