Exploring stories of occupational engagement in a regional secure unit.
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, whilst also acknowledging the potential for occupations to have a negative impact on well-being.
Department of Health, Psychology and Social Studies, University of Cumbria , Carlisle , UK.
Karen
K
Morris
Research Office & Graduate School, University of Cumbria , Lancaster , UK.
Diane L
DL
Cox
Department of Health, Psychology and Social Studies, University of Cumbria , Lancaster , UK.
Kath
K
Ward
Medium secure units; environmental influences; occupation; patients’perception; qualitative research
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