Exploring Psychological Well-being in Menopause

This research thesis evaluates existing literature which considers the emotional impact of menopause and explores psychological well-being in menopause from a range of perspectives.

Chapter one is a literature review of nine empirical studies. The findings indicated that the experience of menopause, related changes and symptoms are associated with reduced emotional well-being. However, methodological quality of the literature reviewed was not consistent, classification of menopause stages was varied, reliability and validity information was not available for all measures used and other mid-life variables which may have been confounding were not measured. The results suggested that psychological and psychosocial aspects of menopause which can impact on well-being are complex and require further exploration to develop understanding.

Chapter two is an empirical study conducted at Staffordshire University which used Q methodology to explore different views on what is considered relevant to psychological well-being in menopause. Five women participated in a focus group and validated 80 statements. 15 women and two men participated in a Q sort of the statements. Data was analysed using principal component analysis and five factors were extracted using varimax rotation: 1. Going it alone. 2. Resilience and reaching out. 3. External solutions and treatment. 4. Resources, knowledge and proactivity. 5. Support, empathy and validation. The findings offer important contributions to the development of improved education, sources of support approaches to intervention and systemic work. The findings, limitations, clinical implications and areas for future research are discussed.

Chapter three is an executive summary of the empirical study, designed for general dissemination to a public audience, in community and virtual contexts.