In the subjunctive mode: epilepsy narratives in Turkey

Area of Science:

• Medical Sociology
• Narrative Medicine
• Qualitative Health Research

Background:

• Epilepsy and seizure disorders significantly impact patients' lives.
• Understanding patient narratives is crucial for effective healthcare.
• Previous research has explored illness experiences but less so narrative structures within specific cultural contexts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the narrative structure of illness stories among individuals with epilepsy and seizure disorders in Turkey.
• To identify specific narrative strategies used by patients and families to cope with their condition.
• To explore how these narratives influence care-seeking behaviors and hope for recovery.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative analysis of interview transcripts from a sample of individuals with epilepsy/seizure disorders in Turkey.
• Application of reader response theory concepts to interpret narrative elements.
• Identification and analysis of 'subjunctivizing tactics' within illness narratives.

Main Results:

• Illness stories exhibit both an overall life narrative structure and are composed of shorter, distinct stories.
• 'Subjunctivizing tactics' were identified, enabling justification of continued care-seeking.
• Narratives maintained multiple perspectives and potential readings, suggesting alternative illness trajectories and emphasizing hope through encounters with the mysterious.

Conclusions:

• Narrative analysis provides deep insights into the lived experiences of epilepsy and seizure disorder patients.
• The use of specific narrative tactics, like 'subjunctivizing,' is key to maintaining hope and facilitating ongoing engagement with healthcare.
• Understanding these narrative strategies can inform more patient-centered and supportive care approaches for chronic conditions.