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April 3, 2026Open Access

Illness perceptions in functional neurological disorder: a ‘think-aloud’ study of the Revised Illness Perception Questionnaire using content and thematic analysis

Key Points

This research aims to understand illness perceptions in functional neurological disorder (FND) and how they relate to treatment and stigma.
Conducted a think-aloud study using the Revised Illness Perception Questionnaire (IPQ-R)
Used content and thematic analysis to explore participants' thoughts and feelings
Investigated different subtypes of FND over time in treatment settings
Identified complex relationships between illness perception, stigma, and treatment access
Highlighted the need for an adapted IPQ-R that is sensitive to neurodivergent experiences
Established themes around the uncertainty and complexity of FND that affect treatment outcomes

Abstract

Illness perceptions in FND reflect a dynamic relationship between the complexity and uncertainty of the condition, comorbidities, stigma and treatment access difficulties. Co-produced qualitative work should explore different FND subtypes at serial timepoints in treatment to adapt the IPQ-R as a meaningful and sensitive measure for FND, which considers neurodivergent people and trauma survivors.

Illness perceptions in functional neurological disorder: a ‘think-aloud’ study of the Revised Illness Perception Questionnaire using content and thematic analysis

Key Points

Abstract

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