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Published on: September 20, 2024
Persons with Epilepsy: Between Social Inclusion and Marginalisation
Simona Mlinar1, Davorina Petek2, Živa Cotič3
1Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Vrazov Trg 2, SI-1104 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
Persons with epilepsy (PWE) experience social isolation due to epilepsy's physical, emotional, and social effects. Their sense of social inclusion is influenced by psychosocial factors and varies individually.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychosocial Health
- Sociology
Background:
- Epilepsy, a chronic neurological disorder, presents significant psychosocial challenges.
- It impacts the social status, inclusion, and self-perception of individuals with epilepsy (PWE).
- This study investigates the subjective experiences of social inclusion among PWE in Slovenia.
Observation:
- A qualitative approach was employed, utilizing semistructured interviews.
- Eleven participants shared their experiences regarding social inclusion.
- Thematic analysis was the chosen method for data interpretation.
Findings:
- Epilepsy results in physical (fatigue, headaches), emotional (fear), and social consequences.
- Socially, epilepsy negatively affects PWE's social networks, leading to isolation and distrust.
- Individual experiences of social inclusion are diverse and influenced by various psychosocial factors.
Implications:
- Epilepsy's consequences directly impact social interactions and the sense of belonging for PWE.
- Understanding these subjective experiences is crucial for developing targeted support strategies.
- Enhancing social inclusion for PWE requires addressing multifaceted psychosocial determinants.
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