Research, recovery and mental health: challenges and opportunities. Issue 3 (8th August 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Collins, Padraig; Crowe, Sarah
• Is Part Of: Mental health and social inclusion. Volume 20:Issue 3(2016)
• Page Start: 174
• Page End: 179
• Publication Date: 2016-08-08
• Subjects: Research -- Research methodologies -- Mental health -- Recovery -- Service user -- Clinical; Mentally ill -- Services for -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; Mental health services -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; Day care centers for people with mental disabilities -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; 362.20425094105
• DOI: 10.1108/MHSI-02-2016-0010
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2042-8308

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: – The purpose of this paper is to explore the limitations of the current research paradigm in mental health, particularly from a recovery perspective, and to suggest an alternative approach to clinical research which may be more in line with recovery principles. Design/methodology/approach: – The paper will first review the dominant research methodology utilised by the mental health disciplines, discussing some of the limitations of this approach, particularly from a recovery perspective. Existing research methodologies which embody recovery principles will then be outlined, before an alternative, more recovery-oriented, approach to research is discussed. Findings: – The findings from this paper suggest that the current research paradigm utilised by the mental health disciplines may not be producing the most optimal results, and that a more recovery-oriented approach could help add to the value of this research, while also involving service users and their carers in the research process in a more meaningful way. Research limitations/implications: – This paper will explore possibilities for undertaking recovery-informed research, which has implications, not only for researchers, service users and their families, but also for the practice of mental health disciplines more broadly. Originality/value: – This paper will introduce a critique of traditional research methodology in mental health and will present an alternative recovery-oriented approach which could help to overcome some of the limitations of the more traditional approach.