Ecomapping: an innovative research tool for nurses

Aim. This paper explores the use of ecomaps as a research tool for capturing data, using the example of the dynamic nature of social networks from which informal carers of people living with motor neurone disease draw their support.\ud Background. The need for social support in relation to health maintenance and disease management has been identified in the literature but little has been published about ways to investigate support networks. Existing discussion in the literature about the use of ecomaps as a clinical tool in social work creates a valuable framework for data collection which can be readily adapted by nurse researchers.\ud Method. We used ecomaps as part of a repertoire of research tools to gather data about the social networks of carers of people living with motor neurone disease. Primary carers participated in three interviews and collaborated in ecomap construction over a period of ten months during 2003. Analytical correlations were made between ecomaps and interview data. \ud Findings. Ecomaps provided a visual means of facilitating discussions around the structure and strength of networks. Being able to represent the social networks visually through ecomapping enabled people to identify each member of the network, examine the strength of each relationship and ascertain the sources of nurture and tension over time. Limitations to this type of data collection arise when participants try to quantify relationships that have been visually produced.\ud Conclusion. Ecomapping is a valuable research tool because it provides visual representation of supportive care networks, capturing strategic data through symbols expressing relationships that may be inadequately portrayed in words. The ecomap incorporates the use of consistent symbols that standardise recipient responses, enabling data comparisons to be made

Parents conceptions of intensive group training. The case of cerebral palsy

Purpose. The aim was to explore what wants and needs intensive group training (IGT) fulfil for parents of children with cerebral palsy (CP) and what problems that may arise due to participation. Methods. A phenomenograpical approach was used. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to elicit information about what participation means to parents. Results. Five overarching categories expressing positive functions of IGT were identified: IGT as knowledge promotion, as a complementary training resource, as a bracket to ordinary life, as a means to promote relations with therapists, and as a leisure-activity. One category: IGT as risk for ill-being expresses perceived problems. Each category is in turn divided into a number of subconceptions-13 conceptions of this kind were identified. Conclusions. The conceptions express positive and negative functions of IGT as perceived by parents. These functions in turn can be considered as reflections of basic wants and needs. The results demonstrate that IGT have a potential to contribute to feelings of enhanced care competence among parents, of being supported and of increased strength and vitality. All parents did not have needs of participation in IGT for themselves. There is also a risk that IGT is experienced as an additional burden and may have negative effects on family-functioning.This is an electronic version of an article published in:Pia Ödman, Bengt Richt and Birgitta Öberg, Parents’ conceptions of intensive group training. The case of cerebral palsy, 2009, DISABILITY AND REHABILITATION, (31), 4, 293-301.Disability and rehabilitation is available online at informaworld:http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/09638280801945709Copyright: Taylor Francishttp://www.informaworld.com