Mid Sweden University

The network approach to psychological diagnosis and case conceptualisation has recently become an interesting alternative to the latent disease model of the disorders presented in the DSM and ICD. Network analysis aims to discover the maladaptive feedback loops, or processes, maintaining psychological distress. In a mixed methods study, perceived causal problem networks (PECAN) based on the Extended Evolutionary Meta Model-dimensions was composed during an interview at an outpatient clinic. User experience of the participants were explored with self report and cognitive interviewing techniques (thinking aloud) of participants from Swedish outpatient clinics. Findings include indications/ how patients create their understanding of presenting problems, and the accuracy and workability of their network. Discussion of how patient experience and perception can influence and construct networks, and successively impact motivation for psychotherapy will follow.