School of Geography - Theses

Permanent URI for this collection

Search Results

Now showing 1 - 1 of 1
  • Item
    Thumbnail Image
    Young people and epilepsy: a study into the psychosocial effects of epilepsy on young people
    Brown, Robin Bruce ( 1993)
    To understand the psychosocial effects of epilepsy on young people, this Study identifies, describes and analyses these effects on a sample of 22 young people aged between 12 years and early adulthood. A critical evaluation of the literature on the psychosocial effects of epilepsy on young people reveals that methodological anomalies are apparent in much of the research.` subsequently, evidence presented in the literature may have led to erroneous generalisations. Adopting a 'grounded theory' approach in which 'emergent' themes are analysed, this Study uses structured and semi-structured intensive interviewing techniques to identify a diverse range of difficulties associated with epilepsy. The study considers why identified dimensions of having epilepsy are perceived as 'difficult', and investigates the nature of strategies employed to cope with difficulties. The roles and constructions of stigma in establishing and amplifying psychosocial problems are examined. The Study also examines whether psychosocial problems are prevalent in the sample group. Among this sample group, psychosocial functioning and adjustments to epilepsy appear to be at a high level. Effective coping strategies, actively employed, reduce 'problems' to manageable 'obstacles' which are generally accepted and integrated as part of every day life. The findings of this Study question the clinical generalisation that psychosocial problems are prevalent among the 12 year old to early adulthood age group who have epilepsy.