/library/oar/handle/123456789/120853 2026-06-13T03:09:48Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/146892 Title: Parental alienation : the lived experience of targeted mothers Abstract: The aim of this study was to explore the lived experiences of nine self-identified targeted mothers of parental alienation in Malta. This study sought to address this research gap by adopting a systemic approach, specifically examining how this phenomenon impacted the targeted mothers’ emotional and physical well-being, as well as their relationships with their children and other family members. Data elicited from the interviews with these mothers was analyzed using an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) approach. Taking a social constructionist perspective, the findings were interpreted through the lens of ambiguous loss theory and contextual family therapy. The targeted mothers experienced parental alienation as a continuation of the abuse that started off in marriage, and continued after the separation, where the children were enlisted in perpetuating the abuse through the alienation. The ambiguous loss these mothers experienced was debilitating to their well-being. They sought various ways to cope, while also expressing the need for more understanding and support from their families and professionals. This study provided suggestions for targeted mothers enduring parental alienation, emphasizing the importance of seeking support for themselves and their children through family therapy. It also offered recommendations for therapeutic professionals and others working with these families, including the need for specialized training and expertise. Description: M. FTSP(Melit.) 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/146891 Title: Sex talk : family therapists’ experience of addressing sexual issues in therapy Abstract: This study explores the relationship between systemic family therapists' personal experiences with sex, their professional contexts, and their comfort in discussing sexual topics in therapeutic settings. By investigating how these personal histories, attitudes, and professional trajectories influence their approach to discussing sex and sexuality, this study uncovers the subtle dynamics shaping these therapeutic interactions. It also fills a research gap by examining the impact of therapists' resonances in initiating conversations about sex. Nine family therapists were engaged through face-to-face semistructured interviews. Thematic Analysis (TA) was utilised to interpret the findings. The analysis revealed five central themes that explore the connections between therapists' personal histories and their current comfort in discussing sex and sexual issues in therapy. These themes highlight how therapists' familial backgrounds, individual beliefs, and life experiences influence their comfort and readiness to address sexual topics. Additionally, the study examines the impact of educational backgrounds on therapists' approaches to handling sexual issues in therapy sessions and explores challenges therapists face when clients' issues mirror their own personal narratives. In conclusion, this study underscores the nuanced relationship between therapists' personal resonances and their professional practice in addressing sexual issues. By highlighting the interplay between personal backgrounds and therapeutic approaches, it emphasises the importance of ongoing reflexivity and self-awareness for effectively navigating discussions of sexuality with clients. The outcomes of this study provide recommendations for future research and implications for practice, supervision, and training in systemic psychotherapy. Description: M. FTSP(Melit.) 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/146890 Title: The impact of domestic violence on primary school children’s experience of schooling : the mothers’ and educators’ perspectives Abstract: This study explores the impact of domestic violence on children’s schooling experience guided by reflexive Thematic Analysis. Three mothers and four educators were interviewed to get their respective perspectives on the research study. A social constructionist framework, a trauma-informed approach, an attachment narrative framework and principles from the attachment theory supported the systemic interpretation of the findings. The findings indicate that while some children exhibit resiliency and use school as a refuge from their troubled experiences, others endure fear and anxiety that negatively affect their schooling experience in various ways. This includes children exhibiting aggressive behaviour, symptoms of Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder, selective mutism, social isolation, incontinence, and academic struggles. Due to their violent home environment, schools often become children’s haven. Development of trust and positive relationships with their educators are crucial to encourage children to share their experiences of domestic violence and to receive the necessary support. This study highlights the importance of schools taking proactive steps to promote the mental health and wellbeing of children. It recommends that mental health education should be integrated into the formal curriculum and that educators should receive adequate training and support to effectively address this important issue. Description: M. FTSP(Melit.) 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/146889 Title: The fathers' lived experience of having had their adolescent child engaging in non-suicidal self-injury Abstract: The study explores the fathers’ lived experience of their adolescent child’s non-suicidal self injury (NSSI), paying particular attention to how this impacted them personally as well as relationally with their child and their partner. Six homogenous participants were recruited through purposeful sampling through a number of institutions which acted as gatekeepers. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews. The epistemological stance underpinning the study was social constructionism, adopting existential and phenomenological approaches. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was adopted as the methodology of choice. Six Group Existential Themes (GETs) were elicited through the data analysis: impact of self-harm on their fatherhood; impact of the self-harm on the relationship with their partner and on their relationship with the adolescent; the mutual impact of the family system and the self-harm; the fathers’ perception and experiences with professionals; and self-harm as a personal journey of growth for the fathers. Findings were interpreted and discussed through the lens of attachment theory, systems theory and trauma theory. The results of this study point to a strong relational foundation for NSSI, where the teenager's self-harming behaviour is fostered by the systemic dynamics where the relationship between the adolescent and father is intricately linked. The findings also showed how this experience can be humbling and enriching for fathers, also contributing to stronger family bonds. The need for timely interventions, including family therapy sessions, also came to light. Based on the findings and personal reflections, implications for practice as well as recommendations to researchers conducting comparable studies were made. Description: M. FTSP(Melit.) 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z