How people with psychosis positively contribute to their family: a grounded theory analysis Joanne Coldwell, a Sara Meddings b and Paul M. Camic c The literature on psychosis and schizophrenia has tended to take a burden perspective, positioning the person with the diagnosis as being cared for, rather than being able to contribute to their family. A few studies have suggested that people with this diagnosis do contribute to their families. None have explored how this process takes place. This research aims to explore how people with psychosis contribute to their family and what factors help and hinder this. Six individuals with a diagnosis of schizophrenia and six relatives were interviewed and data was analysed using grounded theory. The emergent theory suggests that people with psychosis do contribute positively to their family. The process is shaped by individual, familial and societal factors and relies on the availability of an opportunity to contribute. The psychological rewards of contributing for both family and individuals suggest this is a process worth facilitating and using therapeutically in clinical work. Keywords: psychosis; schizophrenia; positive contributions; family. Introduction The onset, recognition and confrontation of mental health problems in a family member have been portrayed in the literature as ‘pivotal, catastrophic and cumulative stresses for the family’ (Lukens et al., 2004, p. 489), partly because of the role families play in providing support to people with mental health difficulties. The impact of having a family member with psychosis or a diagnosis of schizophrenia Journal of Family Therapy (2011) 33: 353–371. doi: 10.1111/j.1467-6427.2010.00513.x r 2010 The Author(s) Journal of Family Therapy r 2010 The Association for Family Therapy and Systemic Practice. Published by Blackwell Publishing, 9600 Garsington Road, Oxford OX4 2DQ, UK and 350 Main Street, Malden, MA 02148, USA. a Clinical Psychologist, c/o St Mary’s Wrestwood Children’s Trust, Wrestwood Road, Bexhill on Sea, East Sussex, TN40 2LU. E-mail: jo_coldwell@hotmail.com. b Consultant Clinical Psychologist, Recovery (psychosis); Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Assertive Outreach Team, Amberstone, Carter’s Corner, Hailsham, East Sussex. c Clinical Research Director, Reader in Clinical and Health Psychology, Department of Applied Social and Psychological Development, Canterbury Christ Church University, Broomhill Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent. JOURNAL OF FAMILY THERAPY