Developing self-neglect theory: analysis of related and atypical cases of people identified as self-neglecting

Citation

Lauder W, Roxburgh M, Harris J & Law J (2009) Developing self-neglect theory: analysis of related and atypical cases of people identified as self-neglecting. Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, 16 (5), pp. 447-454. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2850.2009.01397.x

Abstract
Self-neglect is a complex, relatively common and as yet not fully understood phenomenon. People who self-neglect often do not undertake those activities which are judged necessary to maintain a socially accepted standard of personal and household hygiene or to maintain their health status. This may be explained by a variety of factors of which psychopathology, culture, social class and poverty all play a role in the construction of this phenomenon. The self-neglect literature overwhelmingly presents professional views and focuses on the most severe cases. This paper explores some core issues in relation to self-neglect theory through in-depth interviews with atypical (related) cases. These cases allow the boundaries of what is and is not self-neglect to be tested. Analysis of these cases suggests that self-neglect remains a useful concept but contains a far wide range of presentations than previously reported.

Keywords
poverty; self-neglect; social exclusion; squalor; Self-care, Health; Apathy; Cleanliness

Journal
Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing: Volume 16, Issue 5

People

Dr Michelle Roxburgh

Lecturer, Health Sciences (Highland & W.Isles)