Use this URL to cite or link to this record in EThOS: https://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.695886
Title: The views of adults with Huntington's disease on assisted dying : a psychological exploration
Author: Regan, Laurence
ISNI:       0000 0004 5991 4894
Awarding Body: Lancaster University
Current Institution: Lancaster University
Date of Award: 2016
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Abstract:
Neurodegenerative diseases are not typically associated with a palliative care approach, despite poor quality of end-of-life care for people with these conditions. The first aim of this thesis was to understand the views of adults with neurodegenerative diseases on end-of-life care. Consequently, a metasynthesis was conducted. This review revealed that the care needs of people with neurodegenerative diseases are routinely not being met. It suggests that autonomy and a sense of control are important as well as contextualisation in decision-making. Furthermore, palliative care would be beneficial in meeting the needs of adults with neurodegenerative diseases. Theoretical, clinical and research implications are discussed. The second aim of this thesis was to explore how people with Huntington’s disease (HD, a major neurodegenerative disease) view assisted dying, a frequently debated issue. A thematic analysis was conducted using semi-structured interviews. Participants views were captured in four themes: 1) Autonomy and kindness in assisted dying; 2) HD threatens identity but is part of life; 3) Dilemmas in decision-making on assisted dying: “There are no winners”; and 4) Absence of explicit discussion on dying and HD: “Elephants in the room”. The study found that HD influenced views on assisted dying and that participants valued maintaining control of both their life and their death. They faced dilemmas in decision making and limited discussion on EOL issues. The final section of the thesis offers a reflective account of the research process.
Supervisor: Not available Sponsor: Not available
Qualification Name: Thesis (Ph.D.) Qualification Level: Doctoral
EThOS ID: uk.bl.ethos.695886  DOI: Not available
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