[How do Psychiatric Executives Evaluate the Inclusion of Experienced Patients as Peer Workers? - Results from an...

This study aimed at investigating the perspective of executives on the implementation of peer support in psychiatric facilities - an aspect that has been insufficiently addressed in research so far.

We guided qualitative interviews with eleven executives of psychiatric institutions from Germany and Switzerland, in which peer workers are employed. The interview transcripts were evaluated according to the principles of content analysis.

The study participants evaluated the inclusion of peer workers very positively overall. Peer support was described as a special quality feature of a psychiatric institution. In addition, improvements were reported with regard to a more respectful and conscious interaction with colleagues and patients as well as a more positive therapeutic climate. Based on their experience, the executives named a number of change management tasks, e. g. with regard to the preparation of the organization, personnel selection and financing, job descriptions and the integration of the peer workers in the team.

Our results underline the specific advantages of peer support for the further development of psychiatric practice. Some implications for personnel management are discussed.