abstract: Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES), is a conversion disorder thought to be linked to unresolved emotional distress. While some studies suggest that PNES patients do not attribute their somatic symptoms to severe psychological experiences (Stone, Binzer, & Sharpe, 2004; LaFrance & Barry, 2005), it is unclear what PNES patients do think causes their seizures, and the psychological consequences of those attributions. The aim of the present study was to investigate PNES patients' attributions for their seizures, and to determine how these attributions relate to stress and emotion regulation. It was hypothesized that participants who attribute their seizures to something (i.e., have an explanation for their seizures) will have lower perceived stress and less difficulty with emotion regulation than those who are unsure of the cause of their seizures. Twenty-four PNES participants completed a questionnaire assessing seizure diagnosis, characteristics of seizure impact, perceived stress, psychological symptoms, emotion regulation, attributions for seizures, and coping resources. Contrary to the hypothesis, having an explanation for seizures, rather than being “unsure” of seizure cause, was related to greater perceived stress. While it would seem that attributing unpredictable seizure events to a cause would lower perceived stress and emotion regulation difficulty, this study indicates that an attribution to an unknown cause may be more beneficial for the individual. / Dissertation/Thesis / M.S. Psychology 2012

This thesis explores the perspectives of people on psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES). It is presented in three separate papers: a systematic literature review; an empirical research paper and a critical reflection of the research process as a whole. The systematic literature review aimed to provide a detailed understanding of stakeholder perspectives on PNES. A systematic search identified relevant studies that were subsequently synthesised using thematic analysis and the broader principles of narrative synthesis. Three broad themes relating to stakeholder perspectives were identified: the nature of PNES as a condition; diagnosis; and management and treatment issues. It was found that both patients and professionals experienced uncertainties in relation to understanding and managing the condition. This highlighted the need for further information and awareness of PNES and the development of clear treatment guidelines. Important differences in opinion were also identified between patients and professionals and consideration was given to how these may disrupt the development of effective partnerships in care. The research into patients' and families' perspectives was found to be lacking and further research was identified as being needed in this area. The empirical paper reports an exploratory qualitative study that aimed to provide an in-depth understanding of the perceived treatment needs of patients with PNES. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and findings were analysed inductively using the principles of thematic analysis. Four key themes were identified: return to normality; post-diagnostic limbo; uncertainty and apprehension about therapy; and need for validation. Patients with PNES described clear goals for their recovery and clear ideas about their treatment needs. However, following their diagnosis, many felt caught in 'limbo' due to uncertainties about their diagnosis and as a result of a lack of post-diagnostic support. Being in 'limbo' also linked to patients' uncertainties about psychology meeting their needs and for some there was apprehension about the potential negative consequences of therapy. The clinical implications of the research are discussed and recommendations for future research are made. The third paper is a critical reflection of the research process as a whole. It provides an overview and evaluation of the first two papers and personal reflections of the lead researcher are offered throughout. Implications for further research and clinical practice are offered and a summary of the research as a whole is offered.

Title: Assessment of the attachment style as a part of the differential diagnosis of psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) Author: Bc. et Bc. Jana Heidingerová Thesis supervisor: doc. PhDr. Lenka Krámská, Ph.D. Pages: 101 Number of sources: 93 The thesis deals with the topic of psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) and their differential diagnosis in the context of attachment and its measuring. Based on theoretical knowledge, the relation between attachment disorders and the diagnosis of PNES was assumed. This connection was examined by comparing the results of three groups of respondents with different diagnoses (PNES, PNES and epilepsy, epilepsy) and a control group. The theoretical part deals with the problematics of attachment, PNES and epilepsy. The empirical part examines differences between groups of respondents, correlations of the variables with socio-demographic factors and correlations between results of each used method. Three questionnaires, PBI, ECR and ECR-RS were used for the research. The data were collected in the Epilepsy Centre at the Na Homolce Hospital. The research sample consisted of a total of 84 respondents. The results were statistically significant for numerous hypotheses. Research suggest that there are correlations of some subscales with socio-demographic...