Relationship of components of forensic service users' experience of recovery

Section A
A literature review considering the role of interpersonal relationships in forensic service users’ accounts of recovery. A systematic literature search identified twenty studies with qualitative descriptions of forensic service user recovery experience. These are critiqued and synthesised using an integrative review process. Results are presented under four resulting categories: relationships with staff, relationships with service user peers, relationships with family and friends and relationships with the wider community. Findings suggest that interpersonal relationships play an important role in recovery for forensic service users and highlight the relevance of a relational model in service provision. Clinical and research implications are discussed.

Section B
A qualitative study using Grounded Theory methodology to construct an understanding of the psychological and relational processes found within a forensic service user reflective group. Interviews were conducted with both service user and staff facilitator attendees of a reflective group run on a medium secure forensic ward. Results formed a flexible, cyclical model based around four key categories: ‘Group Identity’, ‘Linking Self with Others’, ‘The Changing Self’ and ‘Living Visibly in a System’. Findings are presented as providing a solid rationale for the inclusion of service user reflective groups in forensic inpatient settings. Discussion of how this model contributes to and is complemented by existing theory is presented and clinical/research implications suggested.