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Sensory overload: A concept analysis
Stefan Scheydt1,2, Maria Müller Staub3, Fritz Frauenfelder4
1Central Institute of Mental Health, Mannheim, Germany.
International Journal of Mental Health Nursing
|February 11, 2017
Summary
Sensory overload in mental health care lacks a strong theoretical basis. This study analyzed the concept, clarifying its attributes and factors to support future research and clinical applications.
Area of Science:
- Mental Health Care
- Psychiatric Nursing
- Concept Analysis
Background:
- Sensory overload is frequently discussed in mental disorders, often prompting interventions like stimulus removal.
- Existing literature presents a fragmented and insufficient theoretical foundation for sensory overload.
- The concept requires clearer specification and analysis within mental health care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a comprehensive concept analysis of sensory overload within the mental health care context.
- To refine the understanding of sensory overload by identifying its defining attributes, influencing factors, and consequences.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was performed across multiple databases, journals, and online resources.
- Walker and Avant's established method for concept analysis was rigorously applied to selected sources.
- All components of the Walker and Avant method were utilized to ensure thorough analysis.
Main Results:
- The concept analysis resulted in a more focused understanding of sensory overload.
- Key attributes, influencing factors, and consequences associated with sensory overload were clearly described.
- Empirical referents for the concept of sensory overload were identified.
Conclusions:
- This concept analysis provides a foundational step towards developing a middle-range descriptive theory of sensory overload.
- The refined understanding supports potential development of nursing diagnoses and clinical guidelines.
- Further research is warranted to build upon this clarified conceptual framework.
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