Perception of Community Functioning in Young Adults with Recent-Onset Psychosis: Implications for Practice

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.