Article

This study aimed to test the feasibility of using a mobile device (Apple
technology: iPodTouch(R), iPhone(R) or iPad(R)) among people with severe mental
illness (SMI) in a rehabilitation and recovery process and to document the
parameters to be taken into account and the issues involved in implementing this
technology in living environments and mental health care settings. A qualitative
multiple case study design and multiple data sources were used to understand each
case in depth. A clinical and comprehensive analysis of 11 cases was conducted
with exploratory and descriptive aims (and the beginnings of explanation
building). The multiple-case analysis brought out four typical profiles to
illustrate the extent of integration of a personal digital assistant (PDA) as a
tool to support mental health rehabilitation and recovery. Each profile
highlights four categories of variables identified as determining factors in this
process: (1) state of health and related difficulties (cognitive or functional);
(2) relationship between comfort level with technology, motivation and personal
effort deployed; (3) relationship between support required and support received;
and (4) the living environment and follow-up context. This study allowed us to
consider the contexts and conditions to be put in place for the successful
integration of mobile technology in a mental health rehabilitation and recovery
process.

Langue : ANGLAIS