Anxiety in Individuals Affected by Long QT Syndrome as Experienced by Members of an Online User Group
Year: 2011
Type: dissertation
Abstract: Long QT Syndrome (LQTS) is a cardiac condition that affects approximately 1 in 2,500 persons. This condition has been vastly understudied with regard to psychosocial aspects. LQTS patients have the potential for experiencing life threatening cardiac events and prevention requires significant lifestyle modifications. Although there has not been a significant amount of research on this specific syndrome, other research on chronic illnesses suggests that many individuals experience significant psychosocial aspects after diagnosis. This study specifically examined anxiety within the LQTS population through a qualitative research design. An archived database from a LQTS user group involving approximately 780 members was used to ascertain anxiety related themes. Results of the research provided two distinct periods in which participants expressed anxiety related to the diagnosis. These results are discussed within a cognitive behavioral context to elaborate upon identified themes within this population, including ways in which these responses could become maladaptive. Although the primary goal of this research was to identify specific themes related to anxiety, it also serves as a stepping-stone for future research within the LQTS population.
Author: Abigail Janney
Language: English
Subfield: Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W1604647739