The experiences of Black emerging adults with psychotic disorders who have community violence exposure: A phenomenological approach
Danielle T. Walker, PhD, PMHNP-BC (1, 2), Jane Flanagan, PhD, FAAN (2), Robert O. Motley, PHD (3), Gary Brucato, PhD (4), Ann W. Burgess, DNSc, FAAN (2)
1: Department of Psychiatry, Wellness & Recovery After Psychosis Program, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA
2. Boston College, Connell School of Nursing, Chestnut Hill, MA
3. Boston College, School of Social Work, Chestnut Hill, MA
4. Columbia University, Department of Psychiatry, New York, NY
Purpose: This descriptive phenomenological study aims to understand the lived experiences of Black emerging adults with psychotic disorders who have been exposed to community violence (CVE).
Background: CVE is recognized as a public health crisis, with Black emerging adults at higher risk for both CVE and psychotic disorders. The combination of CVE and psychotic disorders poses a significant burden on individuals' lives. Despite this, limited qualitative research focuses on Black emerging adults facing these challenges. Method: The study is rooted in Husserl's descriptive phenomenology philosophy, with data collection and analysis guided by Giorgi's descriptive psychological phenomenological approach. Participants were recruited through purposive sampling and had to meet specific criteria: having a psychotic disorder, experiencing CVE, identifying as Black or African-American, and being aged 18 to 29. Individual interviews were conducted to explore their experiences of CVE. Data was coded and analyzed using bracketing to mitigate researcher bias.
Results: The study sample consisted of eleven participants aged 21 to 28, with an average age of 24.6. Six participants identified as male, four as female, and one as transgender and non-binary/non-conforming. All identified as non-Hispanic Black/African-American and had a primary psychotic disorder. Four key themes emerged: (1) CVE results in a range of emotional responses, (2) CVE results in a range of behavioral responses, (3) CVE causes disruptions in life and relationships, and (4) participants aspire for a better life without a clear pathway. These themes highlight the lived experiences of CVE among these individuals in Boston, MA, and the significant impact on their lives.
Conclusion: Descriptive phenomenology provided a comprehensive understanding of the impact of CVE on Black emerging adults with psychotic disorders. The study illuminates the complex effects of CVE on their mental health and lives. Future research should focus on quantitative studies to further explore CVE's impact on health, social, and psychological outcomes.