Click on the following links. Please note these will open in a new window.

SAGE Journal User Guide

Article 1:

Roy, L., Rousseau, J., Fortier, P., & Mottard, J. P. (2009). Perception of community functioning in young adults with recent-onset psychosis: implications for practice. The British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 72(10), 424-433.

Abstract:

Introduction: Early and intensive rehabilitation for individuals living with first-episode psychosis (FEP) is a key issue for occupational therapists working in mental health settings. Purpose: The purpose of this multiple case study was to explore the perception of outpatients in a youth psychosis clinic in Montreal regarding their community functioning. Method: Nineteen young adults with FEP were interviewed, using a set of questions developed on the basis of a person-environment relationship theoretical model. The steps of data analysis included the transcription and coding of data, data reduction, the aggregation of themes and visual representation. Findings: The participants experienced more handicap-creating situations than competence situations. The themes included a diminished quality of relationship with parents, social isolation and difficulties in work and academic performance, as well as poor access to education. The perception of the participants on each of these themes is elaborated. Practice implications: Specific intervention targets for young adults with FEP should include issues such as the management of energy level, communication and social skills training, residential stability, academic and work rehabilitation and attention to physical features of the home, school and work environments

Questions to Consider

1. Describe the role of a family counselor in resolving the incompatibility of parental expectations and young adult functioning.
2. Discuss the field of academic rehabilitation and how it may be of significance to this population.
3. How may you assist a young adult with recent-onset psychosis to re-develop social skills and/or combat social isolation?

Article 2:

Rooney, M., Chronis-Tuscano, A., & Yoon, Y. (2011). Substance use in college students with ADHD. Journal of Attention Disorders, 1087054710392536.

Abstract:

Objective: The college years represent a developmental transition during which the initiation and escalation of heavy drinking set the stage for lifelong difficulties with alcohol and other drugs. Evidence from studies of adolescents and young adults with ADHD suggests that college students with the disorder may be uniquely vulnerable to alcohol- and drug-related problems. However, no studies have examined substance use in college students with ADHD. Method: Tobacco, alcohol, illicit drug use, and associated impairment were examined in 91 college students with (n = 53) and without (n = 38) ADHD. Results: ADHD was associated with increased frequency of tobacco use, higher rates of dangerous or hazardous patterns of alcohol use, and higher levels of impairment related to marijuana and non-marijuana illicit drug use, independent of conduct disorder history. Conclusion: These findings suggest that college students with ADHD may be at elevated risk for problematic patterns of substance use.

Questions to Consider

1. Discuss the concept of self-medication as it may relate to substance use in college students with ADHD.
2. How may utilizing a holistic or wellness model of treatment be appropriate with his population?
3. Describe your understanding of mental health stigma in college aged persons.

Article 3:

Redmond, C., Larkin, M., & Harrop, C. (2010). The personal meaning of romantic relationships for young people with psychosis. Clinical child psychology and psychiatry.

Abstract:

Romantic relationships are of particular importance to young people, and play a key role in the transition from adolescence to adulthood. Psychosis typically develops during late adolescence or early adulthood, a crucial period for gaining romantic experience. The significance of these relationships for young people with psychosis has never been explored. Eight participants were interviewed about their experiences and perceptions of romantic relationships using a semi-structured interview. The research was conducted using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Five overarching themes emerged, suggesting that participants experienced conflict regarding romantic relationships, as they considered such relationships incompatible with psychosis, whilst they also associated them with normality and recovery. Relationships were perceived to be “risky”, and participants were concerned with strategies for reducing these risks. Respondents typically perceived themselves to have a relative lack of experience and resources, making it more difficult for them to engage in romantic relationships. As romantic relationships are associated with a range of personal and social benefits, young people who have experienced psychosis may benefit from services supporting them in negotiating stigma and facilitating their involvement in romantic relationships.

Questions to Consider

1. In what ways may psychosis be seen as a barrier to forming and maintaining romantic relationships?
2. Describe how you may help a client balance the "riskiness" of a romantic relationship with the possible isolation of refraining from such engagements.
3. What types of psychological resources do you believe would be most beneficial in aiding romantic relationship formation and maintenance?