Shared Experiences of the Families of Female Patients Suffering from the Manic Phase of Bi-Polar Disorder

This study followed a qualitative and phenomenological research design. 15 families of the female patients suffering from the manic phase of bi-polar disorder formed the sample population. The seven-step Colaizzi procedure was applied for data analysis. The major themes were beliefs, reciprocal reaction, relational disturbance, different behavior and supportive umbrella. The results demonstrated that if one member of the family suffered from such a psychiatric disease, it would have numerous negative effects on the family's conditions and thus would reduce all aspects of the quality of life of the rest of the family.