Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item:
http://bura.brunel.ac.uk/handle/2438/9049
Title: | “It gave me something big in my life to wonder and think about which took over the space … and not MS”: Managing well-being in multiple sclerosis through art-making |
Authors: | Hunt, L Nikopoulou-Smyrni, P Reynolds, F |
Keywords: | Art;Creativity;Flow;Multiple sclerosis;Occupation;Self-esteem;Well-being |
Issue Date: | 2014 |
Publisher: | Informa Healthcare |
Citation: | Disability and Rehabilitation, 36(14): pp.1139-1147, (2014) |
Abstract: | Background and aim: Individuals living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) often face progressive loss of function, uncertainty and disruption to self-image and valued roles. Previous studies show that creative self-expression is valued by some people living with long-term illness, yet its meaning for people living with MS is unclear. This research study explored the meanings of leisure-based visual art-making for people living with MS. Method: This qualitative study followed guidelines for Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Single semi-structured interviews were conducted with five adults (2 males; 3 females; 40–65 years), recruited from MS Ireland. Findings: Participants valued art-making for contributing to a more satisfying way of life; for filling occupational voids and using time well. Deep immersion offered respite from worry about illness. Creative classes offered social camaraderie and opportunities for learning and development. Art-making processes and products were highly affirmative, increasing emotional well-being and promoting self-worth. Most felt that they expressed valued aspects of self through their art. Art-making appeared to assist with identity maintenance, accommodating functional losses associated with MS whilst opening “new doors”. Conclusion: Art-making offered a multi-faceted means of supporting identity and increasing fulfilment in lives that were restricted in many ways by MS. |
Description: | This is the author's accepted manuscript. The final published article is available from the link below. Copyright @ 2014 Informa UK Ltd. |
URI: | http://informahealthcare.com/doi/abs/10.3109/09638288.2013.833303 http://bura.brunel.ac.uk/handle/2438/9049 |
DOI: | http://dx.doi.org/10.3109/09638288.2013.833303 |
ISSN: | 1139-1147 |
Appears in Collections: | Occupational Therapy Dept of Health Sciences Research Papers |
Files in This Item:
File | Description | Size | Format | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Fulltext.pdf | 475.53 kB | Adobe PDF | View/Open |
Items in BURA are protected by copyright, with all rights reserved, unless otherwise indicated.