Abstract
Background: The aim of forensic psychiatry is to reduce the probability of criminal reoffending by getting patients involved in their treatments and the care given, thus improving their mental health and enabling them to take on societal responsibility. Forensic psychiatric care is enabled by establishing an alliance and relationship with the patients. In forensic nursing, carers must balance caring and limiting actions in encounters with patients. Interpreting suffering in others raises awareness of one’s own vulnerability. Hence, the aim of this study was to describe the phenomenon of vulnerability as experienced by carers in forensic inpatient care. Methods: Nine participants were recruited at a major forensic hospital, and their narratives were analysed with a reflective lifeworld approach. Results: Vulnerability inevitably emerges as something to manage as encounters with patients force carers to undergo self-reflection. Getting close to the patients and creating alliances means becoming aware of the boundary defining how personal and private they can be. Vulnerability allows one to be genuine in the eyes of others and oneself instead of having to play a role. Dealing with one’s own vulnerability enables carers to open up and get close to patients without increasing the risk of coming into harm. Conclusion: The findings revealed that vulnerability was both a strength and a burden. Vulnerability comprised becoming aware of one’s boundaries, being genuine and protecting oneself. Dealing with vulnerability enables carers to refrain of making judgements and thus enabling a carer- patient relation based on trust.