Exploring Community Adversity in a Culturally Diverse Inner London Borough: A Thematic Analysis of Professionals’ Views in the Context of the Power Threat Meaning Framework

Background: In 2018, the British Psychological Society (BPS) published the Power Threat Meaning Framework (PTMF), which acknowledges the role of adversities on distress at the community level. It also acknowledges the influence of culture on the perception of distress. However, originating in the United Kingdom (UK), a Western society which views distress through an individualistic cultural lens, its applicability across diverse cultures and community contexts remains unclear, with limited existing research in these areas.

Aims: This study aimed to explore the extent to which the PTMF can structure discussions among professionals about community adversity in a culturally diverse inner London borough. This question is pertinent given the UK health policy context, which emphasises community-level action that considers various cultural perspectives to address the social determinants of health and reduce health inequalities.

Method: A qualitative methodological approach was employed, consisting of three focus groups with fifteen healthcare professionals experienced in supporting the local community. Focus group data was analysed using a critical realist approach to thematic analysis.

Results: Five main themes were developed from the analysis: ‘adversities facing the community’; ‘threats posed to the needs of the community’; ‘meaning-making of the community’; ‘threat responses of the community’; and ‘resources of the community’. These themes, along with their related sub-themes, are described.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that the PTMF could offer professionals an alternative perspective on experiences of adversity, including cultural perspectives, at the community level. The study's limitations and implications for public health, clinical practice, and future research are examined.