A case study of a psychiatric community house: investigating the social network interactions of residents

Abstract

An exploratory case study of a psychiatric community home in New Zealand was undertaken. The prime aim of the study was to examine the social interactions of the residents. This involved investigating the interactions between residents, also residents and their caregivers, and the residents' wider networks in to the community. As well, the residents choice of accommodation alternatives, the amount of preparation that they had before their move into the community, and the role of both the residents and caregivers was examined. Findings were based on the analysis of individual interviews, interviews with caregivers plus with one resident who was already known to the researcher (merely using an interview guide), and a dual interview with two residents. The aim was to determine whether this particular community home was a mini-institution or integrated into the community. Results indicated a lack of preparation for the residents' move into the community and a lack of accommodation alternatives. Residents are not adequately selected on the basis of compatibility though there is a sense of community within the complex with mutual aid and support among the residents. Furthermore, old residents do not take part in the selection process of 'new' residents. Caregivers at the home also do not receive adequate, on-going training about mental health issues. Residents perceive the caregivers as friends as well as encouraging independence and self-motivation. Caregivers do not have a paternalistic attitude toward the residents. The residents mentioned more differences than similarities between their homes and the psychiatric hospital. Taken together with analysis of other factors it indicates that this home is not a mini-institution. However, there are some factors that prevent residents from becoming integrated into the community. It is proposed that this may be due to characteristics pertaining to the community rather than characteristics pertaining to the residents. A number of recommendations were made to aid in the community integration of this home and other such homes. Furthermore, recommendations pertaining to the education of 'the community' were suggested.