A systematic review of staff experiences of restrictive interventions in mental health and forensic mental health settings, and an empirical study of patients’ experiences of post-restrictive intervention support in forensic mental health settings

Adams, Dawn 2026. A systematic review of staff experiences of restrictive interventions in mental health and forensic mental health settings, and an empirical study of patients’ experiences of post-restrictive intervention support in forensic mental health settings. ClinPsy Thesis, Cardiff University. Item availability restricted.

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Abstract

Abstract Restrictive interventions (RIs) have adverse consequences for the well-being of patients and staff. There has been a national drive to better understand and reduce the use of RIs in health and social care settings. It has been suggested that staff’s emotional responses play a key role in their initiation and maintenance. This systematic review synthesises qualitative literature on staff experiences of RIs in mental health and forensic settings. Searches were conducted across four databases. Sixteen studies were identified and appraised for methodological rigor using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) quality checklist. Data was synthesised using thematic synthesis to generate descriptive and analytical themes. Thematic synthesis identified three overarching analytical themes: 1) ‘Managing internal conflict’, 2) ‘Decision-making behind the use of RIs’, 3) ‘Navigating the biopsychosocial impact’. Staff experiences of RIs indicate that they are affected physically, emotionally, relationally and morally. Staff attempt to manage these consequences using internal and external coping strategies. The diverse competencies of a Clinical Psychologist mean they are well placed to provide psychological support for staff and patients within these contexts. This review generates novel insights into staff experiences of RIs, highlights implications for clinical practice and identifies important directions for future research.

Item Type:	Thesis (DClinPsy)
Date Type:	Completion
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Schools > Psychology
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Funders:	N/A
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	15 September 2026
Last Modified:	16 Sep 2026 08:31
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/189542

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