Fitting in: maintaining a sense of self during hospitalisation

In this study the patients’ perspective of ‘fitting in’ was gained through participant observation and interviews. Eleven patients’ stories confirmed that while hospitalisation can alleviate the suffering caused by illness, it may cause distress. In order to minimise this threat to self patients adjust to hospital life. They are supported by family, friends and health professionals in interpreting the social rules of the ward by conforming to, circumventing and challenging them.