Trainee Clinical Psychologists’ Training, Experiences, and Attitudes Towards Functional Neurological Disorder: A Mixed-Methods Study

Abstract

Purpose: Functional neurological disorder (FND) is a common condition, often stigmatised within healthcare. Healthcare professional (HCP) attitudes and experiences inform quality of patient care and outcomes, but clinical psychology has been underrepresented in the literature. Training needs have been identified to improve knowledge, confidence, and attitudes towards FND. This research aimed to understand the experiences and attitudes of trainee clinical psychologists (CPs), training received, and the impact of training and/or clinical experience on stigma.

Methods: A convergent mixed-methods design was employed, using online survey and semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed separately, through statistical analysis and reflexive thematic analysis. Integration analysis was conducted using a joint display.

Results: Eighty-eight surveys and 8 interviews were completed. Trainee CPs shared a developing awareness of FND, its impact on the patient, and a drive to improve services and the patient experience. Teaching was commonly offered and beneficial. Overall, low levels of stigma were identified, with training and clinical experience predicting lower stigma.

Conclusions: Trainee CPs demonstrated a developing understanding of FND, with awareness of patient and HCP challenges. The results reinforce the importance of good quality FND training and clinical experiences within professional training and clinical practice, to improve knowledge, confidence, and attitudes.

Date of Award	9 Sept 2024
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	University of Plymouth
Supervisor	Sarah Baldrey (Director of Studies (First Supervisor)) & Nicholas Troop (Other Supervisor)