PARANORMAL BELIEFS, PERSONALITY TRAITS, AND CAREGIVER STRESS IN CAREGIVERS OF PATIENTS DIAGNOSED WITH CONVERSION DISORDER: A THEMATIC ANALYSIS

Abstract

Belief system that we adopt from our ancestors and personality traits that are innate and are also shaped by one's environment play a significant role in determining how someone encounters stress and manages it. The qualitative study using reflexive thematic analysis was conducted to capture caregivers’ subjective experiences and generate practice-relevant insights. The sample consisted of twelve (12) adult caregivers of individuals diagnosed with conversion disorder who were purposively sampled to ensure variation in caregiver relationship (e.g., parent, spouse, and sibling), caregiving duration, and care settings. A semi-structured interview was designed and conducted in a private setting, lasting approximately 90 minutes, covering the illness onset and appraisal; caregiving tasks and impacts; interactions with healthcare providers; coping and support; stigma and community responses, perceived needs, associated paranormal beliefs, and personality traits. Interviews were observed with consent and transcribed verbatim. Brief field notes captured contextual observations and reflexive memos. The findings highlight the need for support that addresses both the practical and emotional needs of caregivers, while also recognizing the role of spiritual beliefs in coping.