Jan Kåre Hummelvoll

Mothers with mental health problems: a systematic review

Mothers with mental health problems meet challenges in coping with their condition, the responsibility of child rearing, and fulfilling their role as a mother. The aim of this study was to create a synthesis of the previous research on mothers with mental health problems and the challenges they face. A systematic literature search of international databases was undertaken, covering the period between January 1998 and April 2009. Nineteen articles met the inclusion criteria. The analysis process involved skimming, comprehending, analyzing, and synthesizing. Three themes emerged: the vulnerability of mothers with mental health problems, the fear of being perceived as not good enough as a mother, and concern that the children might develop mental health problems. In conclusion, the focus of the research field is shifting from viewing the mothers mental health problems from an individualistic perspective to considering them in a broader context of relational, economic, and environmental factors and on the basis of the mother-child relationship being characterized by interdependence.

To live as mentally disabled in the risk society

The contemporary society is to some extent characterized by longitudinal changes, towards individualization, uncertainty, and risk. Numerous risks and dangers in modern society have been mastered, while others have emerged, often created by human actions. The individuals freedom of choice has increased, but also the responsibility for the choices made. In this society, the risk society, there is a greater need for formative and situation-related knowledge to manage risks. The aims of this paper are to discuss the concept of risk society in the light of everyday experiences made by people with mental disabilities, how challenges can be mastered and positive possibilities can be utilized. Data collection was made through a multistage focus group, and the data were analysed by qualitative content analysis. The results show that characteristics of the risk society are identified by people with mental disabilities. Change and uncertainty, obstacles created by societal institutions, lack of trust, and the need of adapted working conditions are frequently experienced, impersonal relations and feelings of loneliness as well. However, these conditions can be partly counteracted by belonging to an alternative fellowship, which might lead to quality of life-related personal improvements.

Children’s participation and experiential reflections using co-operative inquiry for developing a learning programme for children with asthma

The aim of this article is to discuss methodological issues based on experiences involving the use of co-operative inquiry in a paediatric ward and to describe how the children’s own perspectives were taken into account. This project, which was conducted in Norway between 2004 and 2007, involved children, parents and health care professionals meeting in a mutual working process to apply a new pedagogic approach for children with asthma. Ninety individuals (children, parents, health care professionals, teachers and students) participated in the study that had a qualitative approach. The findings indicate that the adults considered the child perspectives throughout the project, while the children’s own perspectives were taken into account during the period of intervention. The children participated actively, which can support empowerment processes. Health care professionals and researchers responded to the children’s views using communication and research techniques adapted to the children’s age, development and sensitivity. Critical choices related to the project were made because of recruitment challenges involving children and families. Children between 7 and 10 years of age are competent actors who can be involved in research and thus represent activated sources of knowledge. Bringing about change requires endurance and a long-term perspective.

Coping and Meaning in Everyday Life: Living with Mental Disabilities in Late-Modern Society

Coping and Meaning in Everyday Life : Living with Mental Disabilities in Late-Modern Society