ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to construct the clear definition of the concept 'self-reliance' among persons with psychiatric disabilities. METHODS: A hybrid model (comparative analysis between literature review findings and actual interview data) was employed to extract essential components of 'self-reliance' and develop its clear definition among those subjects. RESULTS: Self-reliance appeared to have complex nature and consist of multi-dimensional meaning units with 4 different levels (including 8 attributes and 21 indicators). 4 different levels of dimensions and their 8 attributes are suggested as follows: 1) Personal dimension (increasing insight, improving motivation for recovery); 2) Procedural dimension (encouraging empowerment and overcoming internalized stigma, self-esteem); 3) Institutional dimension (utilizing social and government support, formulating social-networks); 4) Consequential dimension (financial independence, planning for independent housing, self-determination). CONCLUSION: The findings of this study will contribute to developing valid measurements to examine self-reliance and establishing nursing interventions aiming at increasing self-reliance in persons with psychiatric disabilities.