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Ekinci O, Koyuncu AN. Assessment of the Readability and Quality of Online Information for Patients and Their Families Regarding Schizophrenia. J Nerv Ment Dis 2024; 212:278-283. [PMID: 38416420 DOI: 10.1097/nmd.0000000000001763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT To our knowledge, this is the first study that specifically aims to assess the readability and quality of online information about schizophrenia. The analysis is performed on 93 of 195 websites that appeared in an advanced Google search of the term "schizophrenia" performed on a single day. The websites were categorized as commercial, nonprofit, professional, and government. The websites were evaluated using the Health on the Net Foundation (HON) code certificate, DISCERN tool, and Journal of the American Medical Association ( JAMA ) benchmark criteria for quality and the Flesch Reading Ease Formula, Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level (FKGL) Formula, Simple Measure of Gobbledygook, and Gunning Fog indices for readability. A total of 21.5% of all websites had a HON code certificate, 50.5% were accepted as high quality ( JAMA score ≥3), and 25.8% reached the recommended readability level (FKGL ≤8). Only three websites scored at a fifth- to sixth-grade reading level. Commercial and government websites had significantly lower DISCERN scores. Commercial websites had significantly lower Flesch Reading Ease Score and FKGL score than nonprofit websites. In conclusion, the current findings indicate that the quality of online information on schizophrenia is generally acceptable, but the readability is insufficient. Website creators, physicians, and health authorities should be more sensitive to the readability of online information about schizophrenia, considering the poor cognitive capacity of the patients and the unique nature of the disease.
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Gooding DC, Mohrbacher DA, Umucu E, Van Hulle CA, Lewis JP, Carter FP, Gleason CE. Ethnoracialized group differences in attitudes and knowledge about schizophrenia and willingness to engage in biomarker research: The UBIGR Study. Psychiatry Res 2024; 334:115776. [PMID: 38377801 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2024.115776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Although there is renewed optimism in biomarker research in schizophrenia, there is also need for greater inclusion of historically underrepresented groups in the research. In the present study, we surveyed 599 African American, 352 American Indian/Alaska Native, and 725 NonHispanic White participants about their attitudes toward research, knowledge and attitudes about schizophrenia, and willingness to engage in biomarker testing. Attitudes toward research were examined using the standardized 7-item Research Attitudes Questionnaire (RAQ) measure. Using structural equation modeling (SEM), we tested our predictive model of the likelihood of willingness to engage in biomarker testing for schizophrenia risk. Members of historically underrepresented groups were less willing to engage in biomarker testing. Overall, attitudes toward research, particularly trust, influenced biomarker testing willingness. These findings suggest that factors influencing willingness to engage in schizophrenia biomarker testing may be modifiable by outreach engagement and education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane Carol Gooding
- Department of Psychology, UW-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Department of Psychiatry, SMPH, UW-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Geriatrics and Gerontology, Dept. of Medicine, SMPH, UW-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.
| | - Denise A Mohrbacher
- Department of Population Health Sciences, SMPH, UW-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Emre Umucu
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Texas - El Paso, TX, USA
| | - Carol A Van Hulle
- Geriatrics and Gerontology, Dept. of Medicine, SMPH, UW-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, UW-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Jordan P Lewis
- Memory Keepers Medical Discovery Team, Dept of Family Medicine & Biobehavioral Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth campus, MN, USA
| | - Fabu P Carter
- Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, UW-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Carey E Gleason
- Geriatrics and Gerontology, Dept. of Medicine, SMPH, UW-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, UW-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, William S. Middleton Memorial VA Hospital, UW-Madison, WI, USA
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Tantawi SA, Kamaleddine AN, Alhajj LA, Naous SM, Kamaleddine NN, Chung S, Joo SW. Social Stigma Toward Individuals with Schizophrenia in a Lebanese Population. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2024; 20:561-570. [PMID: 38476647 PMCID: PMC10929556 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s450385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Schizophrenia has been recognized as the most stigmatized mental disorder, imposing a substantial burden on affected individuals. However, no prior studies have investigated social stigma toward individuals with schizophrenia in Lebanon. Purpose We aimed to examine three components of social stigma including knowledge, attitude, and behavior toward individuals with schizophrenia in a Lebanese population and to explore associated factors with the level of social stigma. Patients and Methods A cross-sectional online survey was administered, and data from 469 participants were gathered from January 31, 2023, to February 18, 2023. We used previously validated questionnaires to assess the knowledge, attitude (Social Distance Scale), and behavior (Reported and Intended Behavior Scale) of participants toward individuals with schizophrenia. The score for each section was calculated and used to explore the associations between sociodemographic factors and the levels of stigma in each domain. Results The study participants had a moderate understanding of schizophrenia. However, a substantial proportion showed negative attitudes and unfavorable behaviors toward individuals with schizophrenia. We identified several sociodemographic factors associated with the knowledge, attitude, and behavior scores. Notably, a higher knowledge score and more positive attitudes were positively correlated with improved intended behaviors. Conclusion This study highlights the pervasive stigma encompassing issues in knowledge, attitudes, and behavior surrounding schizophrenia in a Lebanese population. Our study suggests a pressing need for targeted interventions to increase public awareness and decrease the social stigma of schizophrenia in Lebanon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sana Ahmad Tantawi
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Lebanese University, Hadath, Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | - Lama Ali Alhajj
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Lebanese University, Hadath, Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | | | - Seockhoon Chung
- Department of Psychiatry, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Woo Joo
- Department of Psychiatry, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Stacchini L, Fonzo M, Catalini A, Di Martino G, Santangelo OE, Menegon T, Cedrone F, Gianfredi V. An Italian Validation of the 5-Item Attitudes to Mental Illness Questionnaire (AMIQ): A Useful Tool for Rapid Assessment of Stigma, Acceptance, and Tolerance. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:395. [PMID: 38338280 PMCID: PMC10855529 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12030395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Stigma negatively impacts individuals, families, and communities, affecting relationships, education, and employment and leading to an additional burden on mental health. Assessing public attitudes towards people with mental health conditions is crucial, especially in terms of public health. Therefore, the Attitudes to Mental Illness Questionnaire (AMIQ) was validated and adapted to the Italian cultural context. Translation followed four phases, involving bilingual speakers, comparison, back-translation, and expert review. In the pre-test phase, the questionnaire was administered to 21 participants anonymously. The validation test involved 213 subjects. Statistical analyses included exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, and McDonald's Omega and Cronbach's alpha to assess the internal consistency. The results indicate good internal consistency (Omega = 0.71; Alpha = 0.72), and confirmatory factor analysis (CFI = 0.971) validated the questionnaire's construct. The study's findings align with the original validation, underscoring the questionnaire's robustness. Overall, understanding public attitudes is crucial for public health interventions combating stigma and fostering positive attitudes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Stacchini
- Department of Health Science, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy;
| | - Marco Fonzo
- Hygiene and Public Health Unit, Department of Cardiac-Thoracic-Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy;
| | - Alessandro Catalini
- Food Safety and Nutrition Unit, Local Health Authority of Macerata, 62100 Macerata, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Di Martino
- Department of Medicine and Ageing Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy;
- Unit of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, ASL Pescara, 65100 Pescara, Italy
| | | | - Tiziana Menegon
- Health Promotion Unit, Azienda ULSS Marca Trevigiana, 31100 Treviso, Italy;
| | - Fabrizio Cedrone
- Hospital Management, Local Health Authority of Pescara, 65100 Pescara, Italy;
| | - Vincenza Gianfredi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy;
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BinDhim NF, Althumiri NA, Al-Luhaidan SM, Alhajji M, Saad SYA, Alyami H, Svendrovski A, Al-Duraihem RA, Alhabeeb AA. Cultural adaptation and validation of the mental illness associated stigma scale for Arabic-speaking population in Saudi Arabia. Front Psychiatry 2024; 14:1265096. [PMID: 38293593 PMCID: PMC10824839 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1265096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This research aimed to culturally adapt and validate the MIAS scale for Arabic-speaking individuals within the Saudi Arabian general population, with an emphasis on cultural, societal, and individual nuances. Methods An initial pilot testing with a small group ensured the scale's clarity. Subsequently, two cross-sectional studies involving 189 participants to assess structural validity of the Arabic MIAS scale, and 38 participants to assess the test-retest reliability. Descriptive statistics, Cronbach's α, Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC), and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) were employed for data analysis. Results The Arabic MIAS scale demonstrated good internal consistency and acceptable test-retest reliability (ICC α = 0.631). A three-factor model emerged (CFI = 0.890, TLI = 0.845, RMSEA = 0.094), including "Outcomes," "Negative Stereotypes," and "Recovery," closely mirroring the original study's structure. one item was excluded from the model since it didn't align with any of the three factors. Conclusion The study contributes a culturally adapted, validated, non-condition-specific tool to gauge public attitudes toward mental health stigma in an Arabic context. It highlights the need for culturally sensitive stigma research and interventions and underscores the importance of improving such tools for cross-cultural applicability and comparability.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Mohammed Alhajji
- Office of Assistant Minister, Behavioral Insights Unit, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Science Department, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sami Yahya A. Saad
- Department of Neuroscience, King Abdullah Medical City, Mecca, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hussain Alyami
- Department of Internal Medicine, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia
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Birtel MD, Mitchell BL. Cross-cultural differences in depression between White British and South Asians: Causal attributions, stigma by association, discriminatory potential. Psychol Psychother 2023; 96:101-116. [PMID: 36300674 PMCID: PMC10092833 DOI: 10.1111/papt.12428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Numerous facets of public and internalized mental illness stigma have been established. This study focuses on the stigma of being associated with someone with depression and cultural differences between a Western and an Eastern culture. The aim was to compare White British and South Asians living in the United Kingdom regarding their causal explanations for depression, stigma towards people with depression and stigma by association. DESIGN A cross-sectional design. METHODS White British and South Asians (N = 137) in the United Kingdom completed a survey measuring attributions about the aetiology of depression, discriminatory potential towards people with depression and stigma by association. RESULTS Results revealed that South Asians attributed greater supernatural, moral and psychosocial causes to depression, while White British endorsed greater biological beliefs. South Asians reported a greater discriminatory potential towards people with depression (lower willingness for closeness, greater desire for social distance) than White British. They also indicated greater affective, cognitive and behavioural stigma by association. Stigma by association mediated the relationship between cultural group and willingness for closeness as well as desire for social distance. Perceived dangerousness was a mediator for willingness for closeness. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that a greater consideration of the role of culture in the understanding of mental health is important to combat stigma towards individuals with depression and those close to them across Western and Eastern cultures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michèle D Birtel
- School of Human Sciences, Institute for Lifecourse Development, University of Greenwich, London, UK
| | - Briana L Mitchell
- School of Human Sciences, Institute for Lifecourse Development, University of Greenwich, London, UK
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Schmitt RM, Huynh HP. Stay (Close to) Humble: Intellectual Humility Negatively Predicts Stigma Toward and Social Distance from Individuals with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. Psychol Rep 2023:332941231157233. [PMID: 36780657 DOI: 10.1177/00332941231157233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) remains a highly stigmatized disorder despite its prevalence. Given that the origin of stigmatization is rooted in cognitive representations that people hold, stigma may be differentially exhibited by people with varying degrees of cognitive flexibility. Intellectual humility, the recognition of one's own intellectual shortcomings or flaws, may allow for flexibility in how people navigate knowledge surrounding PTSD, which may reduce stigma and improve interpersonal interactions with individuals with PTSD. The present study investigated whether intellectual humility would negatively predict PTSD stigma and social distance, above and beyond demographic factors and personal or social experience with individuals with PTSD. Participants (N = 421, 67.2% men, mean age = 37.45, SDage = 9.99) completed a multidimensional measure for intellectual humility and the Mental Illness Stigma Scale adapted to assess PTSD stigma. Results confirmed our preregistered predictions. Bivariate correlations demonstrated that overall intellectual humility was negatively correlated with overall PTSD stigma, and overall intellectual humility was negatively correlated with overall social distance. That is, intellectually humble people reported less PTSD stigma and desired closer social distance with individuals with PTSD. Additionally, hierarchical multiple regression revealed that intellectual humility predicted unique variance in PTSD stigma and social distance above and beyond the contribution of demographic factors and personal experience or social relationships with someone with PTSD. These results may provide a useful framework for approaching and minimizing stigma toward PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randee M Schmitt
- Department of Psychology and Philosophy, 4038Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, TX, USA
| | - Ho Phi Huynh
- Department of Life Sciences, Texas A&M University-San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
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Shanko A, Abute L, Tamirat T. Attitudes towards schizophrenia and associated factors among community members in Hossana town: a mixed method study. BMC Psychiatry 2023; 23:80. [PMID: 36707849 PMCID: PMC9883928 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-04555-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mental health disorders have been identified as being one of the public health issues throughout the world. More than 24 million people worldwide suffer from schizophrenia. However, there is little information about the attitude toward people with Schizophrenia in Ethiopia. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to assess attitudes toward people with Schizophrenia and associated factors among residents of Hossana town, Southern Ethiopia. METHODS A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted with qualitative and quantitative data collection approaches among 417 households and three FGDs. The interviewer-administered standard tool was used to collect the data. Descriptive statistics like frequency, mean, and median are computed. A binary logistic regression model was used to identify factors affecting community perception and attitude toward people with schizophrenia. RESULTS Of the study participants, 194 (46.5%) had positive attitudes toward people with schizophrenia. Eccentric behavior and wandering were the most commonly mentioned manifestation. Besides, Substance misuse, loss of loved ones, and conflict with family as the perceived cause, and spiritual or traditional methods as the preferred treatment for people with schizophrenia. Moreover, participants with no family history of schizophrenia were six times [6.3(2.55-15.77)] more likely to develop a negative attitude towards schizophrenia than those with a family history of schizophrenia. CONCLUSION In this study, the findings of this study indicate more than half of the participants had a negative attitude toward people with schizophrenia. Eccentric behavior and wandering were the most commonly mentioned manifestation. Substance misuse, loss of loved ones, and conflict with family have been perceived causes of schizophrenia. Spiritual/traditional places were preferred places for the treatment. Having a family history of schizophrenia was the only factor associated with attitude towards schizophrenia. Therefore, due attention should be given to changing negative attitudes towards schizophrenia, reducing potential schizophrenia-predisposing factors, and enhancing community awareness to seek medical help as early as possible when such kinds of events occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayano Shanko
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wachemo University, Hossana, Ethiopia
| | - Lonsako Abute
- Public Health Department, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wachemo University, Hossana, Ethiopia
| | - Temesgen Tamirat
- Public Health Department, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wachemo University, Hossana, Ethiopia.
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Jarso MH, Debele GR, Gezimu W, Nigatu D, Mohammedhussein M, Mamo A, Dule A, Hassen M, Jemal K. Knowledge, attitude, and its correlates of the community toward mental illness in Mattu, South West Ethiopia. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:1018440. [PMID: 36424987 PMCID: PMC9679014 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1018440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The magnitude of mental health conditions in the general population was high in low-resource settings like Ethiopia. This was accompanied by little evidence on knowledge, attitudes, and related determinants in the general population. Therefore, the current survey is planned to assess the knowledge, attitude, and related factors of the community toward mental illness in Mattu, South West Ethiopia. Objectives Our study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and related factors of the community toward mental illness in Mattu, South West Ethiopia. Methods A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted in South West Ethiopia, Mattu town from 1 April-20 June, 2022 using a systematic random sampling, a multistage stratified technique from 649 households, and employed an interviewer-administered pre-tested semi-structured English version questionnaire. Epi-data Version 3.1 and SPSS-V-23.3 were employed for data entry and analysis respectively. A statistically significant association was declared at a P-value ≤ 0.05 at a 95% confidence interval. Results In the current study, poor knowledge regarding, and unfavorable attitudes toward, mental illness among study respondents were 28% (182) 95% CI (24.3, 31.6) and 60.4% (392) 95% CI (56.5, 64.3), respectively. After controlling for potential confounders, being self-employed was independently associated with poor knowledge [AOR = 3.1, 95%CI (1.65, 4.28)]. Moreover, current use of substances [AOR = 1.64 95%CI (1.09, 5.98)] and not hearing information about mental illness from social media have been shown to be associated in the final model with an unfavorable attitude [AOR = 3.44 95%CI (1.98, 5.99)]. Conclusion and recommendation About one-third and more than one-half of the study participants showed poor knowledge and an unfavorable attitude, respectively. Compared to similar global and local findings, there was better community knowledge and a poor attitude toward mental illness in the area. Unfavorable attitudes toward mental illness were found to be exacerbated by participants not hearing about it on social media and by current substance use. Moreover, being self-employed was independently associated with poor knowledge of mental illness. Hence, all concerned stakeholders need to enhance mental health advocacy to improve public knowledge and attitude toward mental illness through media campaigns with a special focus on common substances. In addition, due attention should be given to self-employed groups of society to reduce the impacts of mental health conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gebiso Roba Debele
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Mattu University, Mattu, Ethiopia
| | - Wubishet Gezimu
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Mattu University, Mattu, Ethiopia
| | - Desalegn Nigatu
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Mattu University, Mattu, Ethiopia
| | - Mustefa Mohammedhussein
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Sciences, Madda Walabu University, Bale, Ethiopia
| | - Aman Mamo
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Madda Walabu University, Shashemene, Ethiopia
| | - Aman Dule
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Sciences, Mattu University, Mattu, Ethiopia
| | - Mohammedjud Hassen
- Department of Health Informatics, College of Health Sciences, Mattu University, Mattu, Ethiopia
| | - Kiyar Jemal
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
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Magidson JF, Rose AL, Regenauer KS, Brooke-Sumner C, Anvari MS, Jack HE, Johnson K, Belus JM, Joska J, Bassett IV, Sibeko G, Myers B. "It's all about asking from those who have walked the path": Patient and stakeholder perspectives on how peers may shift substance use stigma in HIV care in South Africa. Addict Sci Clin Pract 2022; 17:52. [PMID: 36131304 PMCID: PMC9490994 DOI: 10.1186/s13722-022-00330-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND South Africa has the highest number of people with HIV (PWH) globally and a significant burden of co-occurring substance use disorder (SUD). Health care worker (HCW) stigma towards SUD is a key barrier to HIV care engagement among PWH with SUD. Support from peers-individuals with lived experience of SUD-may be a promising solution for addressing SUD stigma, while also improving engagement in HIV care. We evaluated the perceived acceptability of integrating a peer role into community-based HIV care teams as a strategy to address SUD stigma at multiple levels and improve patient engagement in HIV care. METHODS Patients and stakeholders (N = 40) were recruited from publicly-funded HIV and SUD organizations in Cape Town, South Africa. We conducted a quantitative assessment of stigma among stakeholders using an adapted Social Distance Scale (SDS) and patient perceptions of working with a peer, as well as semi-structured interviews focused on experiences of SUD stigma, acceptability of a peer model integrated into community-based HIV care, and potential peer roles. RESULTS On the SDS, 75% of stakeholders had high stigma towards a patient with SUD, yet 90% had low stigma when in recovery for at least 2 years. All patients endorsed feeling comfortable talking to someone in recovery and wanting them on their HIV care team. Three main themes emerged from the qualitative data: (1) patient-reported experiences of enacted SUD and HIV stigmas were common and impacted HIV care engagement; (2) both patients and stakeholders considered a peer model highly acceptable for integration into HIV care to support engagement and address SUD stigma; and (3) patients and stakeholders identified both individual-level and systems-level roles for peers, how peers could work alongside other providers to improve patient care, and key characteristics that peers would need to be successful in these roles. CONCLUSIONS Findings from this formative work point to the promise of a peer model for reducing SUD stigma among patients and HCWs within community-based HIV care teams in SA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica F Magidson
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, 4094 Campus Drive, College Park, Maryland, MD, USA.
| | - Alexandra L Rose
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, 4094 Campus Drive, College Park, Maryland, MD, USA
| | - Kristen S Regenauer
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, 4094 Campus Drive, College Park, Maryland, MD, USA
| | - Carrie Brooke-Sumner
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Parow, South Africa
| | - Morgan S Anvari
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, 4094 Campus Drive, College Park, Maryland, MD, USA
| | - Helen E Jack
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Kim Johnson
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Parow, South Africa
| | - Jennifer M Belus
- Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - John Joska
- HIV Mental Health Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ingrid V Bassett
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Goodman Sibeko
- HIV Mental Health Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Bronwyn Myers
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Parow, South Africa.
- HIV Mental Health Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
- Curtin enAble Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Building 408, GPO Box U1987, Perth, WA, 6845, Australia.
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Agrest M, Nemirovsky M, Dishy G, Abadi D, Leiderman E. 'Love comes first, and it is ahead of any different political partisanism': How political polarizations compare to other forms of discrimination in Buenos Aires (Argentina). Int J Soc Psychiatry 2022; 68:808-817. [PMID: 33794687 DOI: 10.1177/00207640211006736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Affective polarization and stigma toward individuals with schizophrenia and toward immigrants in Argentina are not new despite its importance and dissemination. However, no research has been conducted taking into consideration political partisanship and attitudes toward these groups. AIMS Political polarization and attitudes toward socialization across party lines are studied in conjunction with attitudes toward immigrants and toward individuals with schizophrenia. METHOD Individuals from Buenos Aires (n = 712) were surveyed for their political partisanship and their attitudes toward Peruvian and Bolivian immigrants, people with schizophrenia and partisans from the opposing political party. A modified version of the Bogardus scale was used. RESULTS Social distance was from highest to lowest toward people with schizophrenia, political opponents, and immigrants. Individuals with schizophrenia were strongly discriminated against by most participants: 86% would definitely or probably not want them to take care of their children, 83% would not want them to be their healthcare provider, and 81% would not want to marry them. Immigrants were comparatively not discriminated against: 10% would not want them to take care of their children, 8% would not want to receive health care from them, and 28% would not want to marry them. Cristina Fernández de Kirchner partisans showed the lowest level of discrimination toward these two groups, compared to Mauricio Macri partisans and to independent voters. However, the former group had greater discriminatory attitudes toward Mauricio Macri partisans than the latter. CONCLUSIONS As compared to other discriminatory attitudes, discrimination toward persons with schizophrenia is widespread and pervasive. Lower levels of discrimination toward people with schizophrenia and toward immigrants would not predict attitudes toward the opposing political partisans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martín Agrest
- Proyecto Suma, Community Mental Health Service, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Martín Nemirovsky
- Proyecto Suma, Community Mental Health Service, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Daniel Abadi
- Proyecto Suma, Community Mental Health Service, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Eduardo Leiderman
- Departamento de Neurociencias, Facultad de Ciencias Sociales, Universidad de Palermo, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Mezey G, White S, Harrison I, Bousfield J, Killaspy H, Lloyd-Evans B, Payne S. 'Modelling social exclusion in a diagnostically-mixed sample of people with severe mental illness'. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2022; 68:420-428. [PMID: 33730906 PMCID: PMC8841629 DOI: 10.1177/00207640211001893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social inclusion is an important indicator of recovery in individuals with severe mental illness. The Social Inclusion Questionnaire User Experience (SInQUE) is a new measure of social inclusion for mental health service users which assesses five domains (consumption, production, access to services, social integration and civil engagement). It has good psychometric properties and is acceptable to service users and mental health professionals. It is not clear whether individuals with different diagnostic conditions experience a similar reduction in social inclusion. AIMS (1) Investigate whether current social inclusion differs between diagnostic groups (people with schizophrenia/other psychotic disorders, common mental disorder or personality disorder); (2) Identify factors associated with lower social inclusion; (3) Examine associations between social inclusion and stigma, quality of life and loneliness. METHOD Mental health service users with psychotic disorder, personality disorder or common mental disorder, living in the community, completed the SInQUE, alongside other validated outcome measures. Multiple regression investigated associations. RESULTS About 192 service users (55% with psychotic disorder; 26% with common mental disorder; 19% with personality disorder). Current social inclusion did not vary according to diagnosis, except for the sub-domain of productivity, where individuals with personality disorder were more socially included than the other two groups. Lower social inclusion was associated with older age (p = .008), lack of higher education (p < .001), more previous admissions (p = .005), severity of current symptoms and greater experienced stigma (p = .006) and anticipated stigma (p = .035). Greater social inclusion was associated with better quality of life (p < .001) and less loneliness (p < .001). CONCLUSIONS Barriers to social inclusion in individuals with severe mental health problems include factors related to the illness, such as symptom severity and external factors, such as stigma and discrimination. Social inclusion is a recovery goal and should be routinely assessed. Increasing people's social inclusion benefits service users in terms of improved mental health, better quality of life and reduced loneliness.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Sarah Payne
- University of Bristol School of Applied Community and Health Studies, UK
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13
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Aluh DO, Amorha KC, Anthony-Awi TA. The effect of classroom lectures and a movie recommendation on pharmacy students' attitudes and social distancing toward people with schizophrenia. Ment Health Clin 2022; 12:23-31. [PMID: 35116209 PMCID: PMC8788301 DOI: 10.9740/mhc.2022.01.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction
Stigma and negative attitudes toward people with mental health disorders can impair the provision of pharmaceutical care. The purpose of the study was to assess the effect of classroom lectures on mental health disorders and a movie recommendation on pharmacy students' attitudes and stigma toward persons with schizophrenia (PwS).
Methods
The study consisted of a presurvey and postsurvey carried out among final-year pharmacy students of the University of Nigeria Nsukka. A survey comprising 3 sections on sociodemographic details, attitudes toward PwS, and a social distance scale was given to conveniently sampled students before and after lectures on schizophrenia. Students were encouraged to watch a movie about the experiences of a PwS after the first lecture.
Results
One hundred seventy-nine students (of the 200 sampled, response rate 91.1%) agreed to participate and completed the survey instrument before the clinical lecture, whereas 108 students who took part in the presurvey participated in the postsurvey (response rate of 76.0%). The overall mean negative attitude score reduced from 2.79 ± 0.412 to 2.72 ± 0.357. The overall mean social distance score increased from 2.48 ± 0.415 to 2.49 ± 0.467, indicating increased stigma. In both presurveys and postsurveys, people with a friend or relative with schizophrenia had a lower mean negative attitude score compared with those who did not. People who had watched the movie recommendation (n = 85) had a higher mean negative attitude (2.74 vs 2.67, P = .433) and a lower social distance toward PwS (2.57 vs 2.48, P = .415).
Discussion
Classroom lectures on mental health among pharmacy students might not significantly improve the overall attitudes and social distance toward PwS. Schools of pharmacy should consider alternative formats of teaching mental health–related topics, such as contact with real patients and simulation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kosisochi Chinwendu Amorha
- Lecturer, Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Management, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Nigeria Nsukka, Nsukka, Enugu State
| | - Temitayo Adeola Anthony-Awi
- Undergraduate Student, College of Medicine, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos State
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14
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Chen X, Liao Z, Huang S, Huang Q, Lin S, Li Y, Shao T, Tang Y, Hao J, Qi J, Cai Y, Wang M, Shen H. Stigmatizing Attitudes Toward COVID-19 Among Patients, Their Relatives and Healthy Residents in Zhangjiajie. Front Public Health 2022; 10:808461. [PMID: 35719634 PMCID: PMC9201051 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.808461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction In July 2021, Zhangjiajie City became the new epicenter of the COVID-19 outbreak. Aside from the physical manifestations of COVID-19, patients are also victims of severe social stigmatization. Stigma affects not only COVID-19 patients or survivors, but also individuals associated with them. This study aims to describe and assess the COVID-19-related stigma between patients, their relatives, and healthy local residents. Methods The study included 43 COVID-19 patients, 68 relatives, and 75 healthy residents from Zhangjiajie. Demographic data was collected, including gender, age, marital status, and educational level. Stigma attitudes toward COVID-19 were measured using the Stigma Scale and Social Distance Scale. Frequencies and percentages were described for each item of the scales, and differences among the three groups were examined using the chi-square test. Results With regards to personal and perceived stigma, most participants agreed that patients with COVID-19 "could snap out of the problem" and that "they were dangerous." For social distance, over 30% of participants from the three groups agreed with the item "unwillingness to marry into the family of someone with COVID-19." In all groups, there were significant statistical differences in the belief that "the problem is not a real medical illness" and the desire to "spend the evening socializing." Conclusion Although the outbreak was well-contained in Zhangjiajie, stigmatizing attitudes toward COVID-19 and desire for social distance to such patients were common among patients, their relatives and healthy local residents. Our study's results suggest that public education, anti-stigma interventions, and policies are necessary for people living in Zhangjiajie in order to effectively curtail the spread of COVID-19 and provide a useful strategy for a tourist city like Zhangjiajie to recover sooner from economic decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinxin Chen
- National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders and Department of Psychiatry, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China.,Institute of Mental Health of Central South University, Chinese National Technology Institute on Mental Disorders, Hunan Key Laboratory of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Hunan Medical Center for Mental Health, Changsha, China
| | - Zhenjiang Liao
- National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders and Department of Psychiatry, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China.,Institute of Mental Health of Central South University, Chinese National Technology Institute on Mental Disorders, Hunan Key Laboratory of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Hunan Medical Center for Mental Health, Changsha, China
| | - Shucai Huang
- Department of Psychiatry, The Fourth People's Hospital of Wuhu, Wuhu, China
| | - Qiuping Huang
- National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders and Department of Psychiatry, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China.,Institute of Mental Health of Central South University, Chinese National Technology Institute on Mental Disorders, Hunan Key Laboratory of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Hunan Medical Center for Mental Health, Changsha, China
| | - Shuhong Lin
- National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders and Department of Psychiatry, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China.,Institute of Mental Health of Central South University, Chinese National Technology Institute on Mental Disorders, Hunan Key Laboratory of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Hunan Medical Center for Mental Health, Changsha, China
| | - Yifan Li
- National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders and Department of Psychiatry, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China.,Institute of Mental Health of Central South University, Chinese National Technology Institute on Mental Disorders, Hunan Key Laboratory of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Hunan Medical Center for Mental Health, Changsha, China
| | - Tianli Shao
- Department of Psychiatry, Comorbid Somatic Diseases, Kangning Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ying Tang
- National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders and Department of Psychiatry, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China.,Institute of Mental Health of Central South University, Chinese National Technology Institute on Mental Disorders, Hunan Key Laboratory of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Hunan Medical Center for Mental Health, Changsha, China
| | - Jingyue Hao
- National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders and Department of Psychiatry, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China.,Institute of Mental Health of Central South University, Chinese National Technology Institute on Mental Disorders, Hunan Key Laboratory of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Hunan Medical Center for Mental Health, Changsha, China
| | - Jing Qi
- Department of Psychiatry, Brain Hospital of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Yi Cai
- Department of Psychiatry, Comorbid Somatic Diseases, Kangning Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Mingming Wang
- Clinical Nursing Teaching and Research Section, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China.,Zhangjiajie People's Hospital Designated for COVID-19 Treatment, Zhangjiajie, China
| | - Hongxian Shen
- National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders and Department of Psychiatry, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China.,Institute of Mental Health of Central South University, Chinese National Technology Institute on Mental Disorders, Hunan Key Laboratory of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Hunan Medical Center for Mental Health, Changsha, China.,Zhangjiajie People's Hospital Designated for COVID-19 Treatment, Zhangjiajie, China
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15
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Zare-Bidaki M, Ehteshampour A, Reisaliakbarighomi M, Mazinani R, Khodaie Ardakani MR, Mirabzadeh A, Alikhani R, Noroozi M, Momeni F, Samani AD, Mehrabi Tavana MM, Esmaeili A, Mousavi SB. Evaluating the Effects of Experiencing Virtual Reality Simulation of Psychosis on Mental Illness Stigma, Empathy, and Knowledge in Medical Students. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:880331. [PMID: 35656349 PMCID: PMC9152122 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.880331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Applying technologies such as virtual reality (VR) in education has gained popularity especially in comprehending abstract and subjective phenomena. Previous studies have shown that applying a virtual reality simulation of psychosis (VRSP) is useful in increasing knowledge and empathy toward patients. Here, the efficacy of using VRSP in altering stigma, empathy and knowledge as well as side effects have been assessed in medical students in comparison with the routine education (visiting the patients). METHOD After attending one session of lecture about positive psychotic symptoms, medical students were allocated to two groups: experiencing one session of VRSP or visiting patients under supervision as routine practice in the ward. Before and after the first session and after the second one, questionnaires of knowledge, empathy and stigma were filled by students. Finally, the results were compared in two groups. RESULTS Both interventions were effective in reducing stigma as well as increasing knowledge and empathy toward patients with psychotic experiences. VRSP could significantly reduce stigma and increase knowledge and empathy compared with the traditional visiting patients under supervision. The side effects were minimal and ameliorated right after the experience. CONCLUSION VRSP is an effective tool in decreasing stigma and increasing empathy and knowledge of the students and can be incorporated in psychiatric education with minimal side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majid Zare-Bidaki
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Alireza Ehteshampour
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | | | - Robabeh Mazinani
- Psychosis Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Arash Mirabzadeh
- Psychiatry Department, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Psychosis Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rosa Alikhani
- Psychosis Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Noroozi
- Psychosis Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fereshteh Momeni
- Psychosis Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Dehghani Samani
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | | | - Aliakbar Esmaeili
- Clinical Research Development Unit of Imam Reza Hospital, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran.,Psychiatry and Behavioral Science Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - S Bentolhoda Mousavi
- Psychiatry Department, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Psychosis Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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16
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Kang Y. Why Are Dying Individuals Stigmatized and Socially Avoided? Psychological Explanations. JOURNAL OF SOCIAL WORK IN END-OF-LIFE & PALLIATIVE CARE 2021; 17:317-348. [PMID: 34039235 DOI: 10.1080/15524256.2021.1930330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Extant research on the topic of death and dying in modern society frequently includes the observation that death is now rendered invisible, and dying individuals are stigmatized and socially avoided. The current research speculated that lack of contact with a dying individual may promote negative perceptions of the dying, and this may in turn lead to further avoidance of them. Three studies were conducted: The first study examined how frequently the current U.S. participants had social contact with a dying individual; the second study investigated what perceptions they have of the dying, and the third study tested for potential causal links between negative perceptions of the dying and social avoidance of them. The results indicated: Only a small number of the U.S. participants ever had frequent social contact with a dying individual outside their family; they, nevertheless, shared several common negative perceptions of the dying; and those negative perceptions exerted different effects on one's avoidant attitude toward a dying individual-only making males more avoidant, especially in a physically close social relationship. Two concepts, medicalization and masculinism, were suggested as possible explanations for why dying individuals are stigmatized and avoided in modern society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youngjin Kang
- New Mexico State University Board of Regents, Las Cruces, NM, USA
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17
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Tesfaye Y, Agenagnew L, Anand S, Tucho GT, Birhanu Z, Ahmed G, Getnet M, Yitbarek K. Knowledge of the community regarding mental health problems: a cross-sectional study. BMC Psychol 2021; 9:106. [PMID: 34261532 PMCID: PMC8278586 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-021-00607-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Knowledge of the community regarding mental health problems has a remarkable impact on the attitude, the help-seeking path, and prevention of stigma and discrimination against patients with mental health problems. It is also the cornerstone for designing evidence-based community mental health interventions. However, the evidence is scarce in developing countries like Ethiopia. This study aimed to assess the knowledge regarding mental health problems and associated factors among communities of Jimma Zone, Oromia, Ethiopia. METHODS A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the Jimma zone from March 1 to 22, 2020. A structured, pretested, and interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from 420 study participants selected through a systematic sampling technique. The knowledge about mental health was measured by the adapted version of the Mental Health Knowledge Schedule tool. Data were entered into Epi-data version 3.1 and exported to SPSS version 23.0 for analysis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was done, and p-value < 0.05 and 95% CI were used to determine the predictors of the outcome variable. RESULTS The overall knowledge score showed (188, 44.8%) of the respondents had inadequate knowledge. Moreover, (75, 17.9%) of the respondents reported psychiatric disorders are contagious, and (138, 32.9%) mentioned leaving alone is the treatment for mental illness. Talking or laughing alone and showing strange or unusual behaviors were described as symptoms of mental illness by the majority (407, 96.9%) and (403, 96.0%) of respondents, respectively. Brain dysfunction was attributed to the cause of mental illness by most (390, 92.9%) of the study participants. Similarly, the percentage of responses that attributed the causes of mental illness to possession by an evil spirit, God's punishment, and witchcraft were significantly high (368, 87.6%), (321, 76.4%) and (259, 67.1%), respectively. Furthermore, regression analysis showed that respondents who were able to read and write were 64% less likely to have adequate knowledge than those in secondary school and above educational status (AOR = 0.34, 95% CI (0.16-0.69)). CONCLUSION Knowledge of mental illness among the general public was relatively poor and higher levels of education were associated with good knowledge of mental health problems; this suggests the need for due emphasis on public education to improve the mental health literacy status of the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonas Tesfaye
- Department of Psychiatry, Jimma University, Po Box 378, Jimma, Oromia, Ethiopia.
| | - Liyew Agenagnew
- Department of Psychiatry, Jimma University, Po Box 378, Jimma, Oromia, Ethiopia
| | - Susan Anand
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Jimma University, Jimma, Oromia, Ethiopia
| | - Gudina Terefe Tucho
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences and Technology, Jimma University, Jimma, Oromia, Ethiopia
| | - Zewdie Birhanu
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Jimma University, Jimma, Oromia, Ethiopia
| | - Gutema Ahmed
- Department of Psychiatry, Jimma University, Po Box 378, Jimma, Oromia, Ethiopia
| | - Masrie Getnet
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Jimma University, Jimma, Oromia, Ethiopia
| | - Kiddus Yitbarek
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Jimma University, Jimma, Oromia, Ethiopia
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18
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Abstract
A mixed-methods study assessed mental illness stigma within the Philippine medical community. A 43-item survey was completed by three groups: (1) medical students with no prior mental health training (N = 76, 31%), (2) medical students with psychiatric classroom and/or clerkship experience (N = 43, 18%), and (3) graduate physicians (N = 125, 51%). Exploratory factor analysis identified three de-stigmatized factors for comparisons between the three Filipino groups and with medical students from 5 other countries. Surveys were followed by in-depth qualitative interviews (N = 15). The three de-stigmatized factors were as follows: (1) acceptance of social integration of mental health patients, (2) positive personal interactions with people experiencing mental illness, and (3) rejection of supernatural explanations for mental illness. While overall scores among the sample showed highly de-stigmatized attitudes, graduate physicians reported more stigmatized scores than students on social integration and personal socialization (F = 3.45, p = 0.033, F = 4.11, p = 0.018, respectively). Filipino medical students also had less stigmatizing mental health attitudes compared to students from the USA, Brazil, Ghana, Nigeria, and China. Qualitative interviews confirmed low levels of mental health stigma among the Philippine medical community, while acknowledging the persistence of stigma in the general Philippine populace.
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19
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Wong EC, Collins RL, McBain RK, Breslau J, Burnam MA, Cefalu MS, Roth E. Racial-Ethnic Differences in Mental Health Stigma and Changes Over the Course of a Statewide Campaign. Psychiatr Serv 2021; 72:514-520. [PMID: 33691488 PMCID: PMC8500546 DOI: 10.1176/appi.ps.201900630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The authors examined whether shifts in mental health-related stigma differed across racial-ethnic groups over the course of a California statewide antistigma campaign and whether racial-ethnic disparities were present at the beginning of the campaign and 1 year later. METHODS Participants had taken part in the 2013 and 2014 California Statewide Surveys (CASSs), a longitudinal, random-digit-dialing telephone survey of California adults ages ≥18 years (N=1,285). Surveys were administered in English, Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese, Vietnamese, Khmer, and Hmong. RESULTS Compared with Whites, Latino and Asian respondents who preferred to take the survey in their native language had higher levels of mental health-related stigma on several domains of the 2013 CASS. Specifically, Latino and Asian respondents who completed the survey in their native language were more likely than White respondents to report social distance, prejudice, and perceptions of dangerousness toward people with mental illness. These racial-ethnic disparities persisted 1 year later on the 2014 CASS. Latino-Spanish respondents experienced significant decreases in social distance over the course of the campaign but not to a degree that eliminated disparities on the 2014 CASS. Of note, perceptions of dangerousness of people with mental illness significantly increased among Latino-Spanish respondents between the 2013 and 2014 CASSs. CONCLUSIONS Future research is needed to better understand which components of antistigma campaigns are effective across racial-ethnic minority groups and whether more targeted efforts are needed, especially in light of the persistent and growing racial-ethnic disparities in mental health care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunice C Wong
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California (Wong, Collins, Burnam, Cefalu, Roth); Boston (McBain); and Pittsburgh (Breslau)
| | - Rebecca L Collins
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California (Wong, Collins, Burnam, Cefalu, Roth); Boston (McBain); and Pittsburgh (Breslau)
| | - Ryan K McBain
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California (Wong, Collins, Burnam, Cefalu, Roth); Boston (McBain); and Pittsburgh (Breslau)
| | - Joshua Breslau
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California (Wong, Collins, Burnam, Cefalu, Roth); Boston (McBain); and Pittsburgh (Breslau)
| | - M Audrey Burnam
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California (Wong, Collins, Burnam, Cefalu, Roth); Boston (McBain); and Pittsburgh (Breslau)
| | - Matthew S Cefalu
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California (Wong, Collins, Burnam, Cefalu, Roth); Boston (McBain); and Pittsburgh (Breslau)
| | - Elizabeth Roth
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California (Wong, Collins, Burnam, Cefalu, Roth); Boston (McBain); and Pittsburgh (Breslau)
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20
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Jungmann S, Witthöft M. Myths of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy: Development and Testing of a Questionnaire for Standardized Assessment. VERHALTENSTHERAPIE 2021. [DOI: 10.1159/000507946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
<b><i>Background:</i></b> Myths in the sense of scientifically untenable statements are widespread in the field of clinical psychology and psychotherapy and can have considerable consequences (e.g., stigmatization, ineffective/potentially harmful treatments). In German-speaking countries, myths have so far been little investigated, and there is no validated questionnaire specifically for the assessment of myths in clinical psychology/psychotherapy. The aim of the study was to develop a questionnaire on myths in clinical psychology/psychotherapy (FMKPP) and to conduct a first psychometric test on two samples (general population, students). In addition, correlations with personality traits, absorption, and intolerance of uncertainty were examined. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> In a sample of the German general population (<i>n</i>= 286) as well as in college students (<i>n</i>= 368), the factor structure and item characteristics were examined, and correlations with dispositional characteristics were calculated. <b><i>Results:</i></b> The FMKPP consists of three factors: “myths about the effectiveness of psychotherapy,” “myths about mental disorders/processes in psychotherapy,” and “myths concerning the functioning of memory.” Reliabilities (McDonald’s ω) were between 0.50 and 0.75. As expected, the FMKPP showed significant positive correlations with absorption and uncertainty intolerance. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> The reliability and validity of individual items should be investigated in future studies. The association with intolerance of uncertainty could indicate a function of myths in terms of increasing safety and predictability.
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21
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Zahid A, Best MW. Stigma towards individuals with schizophrenia: Examining the effects of negative symptoms and diagnosis awareness on preference for social distance. Psychiatry Res 2021; 297:113724. [PMID: 33486270 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2021.113724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Social exclusion towards individuals with schizophrenia can occur as a result of stigmatizing attitudes towards the diagnosis or as a response to observing atypical behaviours resulting from symptoms. The present study examined social exclusion towards schizophrenia as a function of diagnosis awareness and presence of negative symptoms. 64 healthy participants watched four different videos of confederates who were either labelled / not labelled with schizophrenia and displayed / did not display negative symptoms. Participants ranked their preference for social interaction with individuals in ten different activities and were told that they would complete the activities based on their rankings. A significant interaction between label and symptoms was found as knowledge of diagnosis increased desire for social distance if symptoms were absent and decreased desire for social distance if symptoms were present. A main effect of symptom presence was also found as participants displayed greater desire to complete activities with individuals not displaying symptoms than participants displaying symptoms but there was no effect of diagnostic label. Social exclusion appears to be dependent on both presence of negative symptoms and knowledge of diagnosis. It may be useful to focus on increasing public acceptance of specific symptom presentations in public mental health campaigns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aqsa Zahid
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, ON, Canada; Graduate Department of Psychological Clinical Science, University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, ON, Canada M1C 1A4
| | - Michael W Best
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, ON, Canada; Graduate Department of Psychological Clinical Science, University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, ON, Canada M1C 1A4.
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22
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Attitudes of medical students in Saudi Arabia towards mental illness and their beliefs regarding its causes and treatability. Asian J Psychiatr 2021; 56:102515. [PMID: 33373909 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2020.102515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The stigmatization of people with mental illness is a worldwide problem. The authors aimed to assess stigmatizing attitudes among medical students at a university in Saudi Arabia towards mental illness and to evaluate the association of psychiatric education and planned medical specialty with stigmatizing attitudes and beliefs concerning the treatability and etiology of mental illness. A cross-sectional survey of currently enrolled medical students at Sulaiman Al Rajhi University was conducted through convenience sampling using a 52-item questionnaire. Factor analysis identified four unique factors representing attitudes and beliefs towards mental illness. ANOVA and Chi-square tests were used to evaluate the differences in attitude among students at different levels and other variables associated with these factors. Altogether 245 students (46.7 %) responded to the survey. Completion of a classroom psychiatry course, but not a clinical clerkship, was associated with a stronger belief in the effectiveness of the treatment of both medical and mental illnesses (p = 0.031) as well as greater acceptance of the biopsychosocial model of the etiology of mental illness (p = 0.001). Students interested in pursuing a surgical career had weaker beliefs in the effectiveness of treatment of mental illnesses as compared to students interested in other minor specialties (p = 0.002). While attitudes towards socializing with people with mental illness did not differ significantly with different levels of psychiatric education, beliefs about treatability and biopsychosocial etiology seem to be strengthened after a classroom psychiatry course but not further reinforced after the clinical clerkship.
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23
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Abstract
Schizophrenia is among the most stigmatized mental illness. Adolescence may be a critical time to intervene, before stigmatizing attitudes have been solidified. As such, schools may be in a unique position to provide anti-stigma interventions to a large number of students. The aim of this paper was to review and critically analyze the most recent (2003-present) school-based schizophrenia stigma interventions, with seven studies identified. Studies were analyzed according to their intervention method, outcome measures, and experimental design. Substantial heterogeneity between studies precluded concrete conclusions or recommendations regarding the effectiveness of school-based schizophrenia stigma interventions. However, the most effective and informative studies utilized combinations of rigorous experimental design, psychometrically-validated measures examining multiple different factors related to stigma, and longer-term follow-up analyses. Future researchers are encouraged to utilize intervention methods and outcomes measures that are developed from and relevant to adolescent populations, rather than adapted from that of adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura K Flanigan
- Werklund School of Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Emma A Climie
- Werklund School of Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
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Aluh DO, Anyachebelu OC, Ajaraonye CI. Comparison of pharmacists' mental health literacy: Developed versus developing countries. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2020; 60:S64-S72. [PMID: 32580909 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2020.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the mental health literacy (MHL) of pharmacists in Nigeria and their comfort rendering pharmacy services to patients with mental illness with that of pharmacists in developed countries. DESIGN A cross-sectional study design was employed. Questionnaires containing closed, ordinal, Likert-type, and multi-choice questions were used to elicit information from the respondents. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Pharmacists from all areas of practice attending the 91st Annual Conference of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria from October 29 to November 3, 2018, were conveniently sampled. OUTCOME MEASURES Pharmacists' MHL, stigma, desired social distance, and comfort rendering pharmacy services were compared with relevant literature from developed countries. RESULTS Of the approximately 360 pharmacists who received the survey, 117 responded (32.5%). Although less than half (45.3%, n = 48) of the pharmacists reported that antidepressants were beneficial in treating depressive symptoms, almost all of them (96.2%, n = 102) rated antipsychotics to be helpful for schizophrenia. The desired social distance was higher in schizophrenia than in depression (P = 0.001). More than half (57.1%, n = 61) of the pharmacists surveyed believed that violence was more likely among persons with a mental illness. The respondents reported a higher level of comfort giving medication advice to patients with cardiovascular disease than to those with mental illness (P < 0.001). Approximately one-third (34.0%, n = 36) of the pharmacists agreed that they had sufficient training in the identification and management of mental illness. Literature from developed countries showed high levels of MHL among pharmacists in terms of knowledge but relatively high levels of stigma, desired social distance, and discomfort rendering pharmaceutical care to patients with mental illness. CONCLUSION The findings indicate some knowledge gaps and misconceptions among Nigerian pharmacists regarding mental illness. The stigma and desired social distance among pharmacists in this study were comparable to findings from developed countries.
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Jungmann S, Witthöft M. Mythen der Klinischen Psychologie und Psychotherapie: Entwicklung und Erprobung eines Fragebogens zur standardisierten Erfassung. VERHALTENSTHERAPIE 2020. [DOI: 10.1159/000507767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
<b><i>Hintergrund:</i></b> Mythen im Sinne von wissenschaftlich nicht haltbaren Aussagen sind im Bereich der Klinischen Psychologie und Psychotherapie weitverbreitet und können erhebliche Auswirkungen haben (z.B. Stigmatisierung, unwirksame/potenziell schädliche Behandlungen). Im deutschsprachigen Raum sind Mythen bislang wenig erforscht, und es existiert kein validierter Fragebogen spezifisch zur Erfassung von Mythen der Klinischen Psychologie/Psychotherapie. Die Studie verfolgte das Ziel, einen Fragebogen zu Mythen der Klinischen Psychologie und Psychotherapie (FMKPP) zu entwickeln und an zwei Stichproben (Allgemeinbevölkerung, Studierende) einer ersten psychometrischen Prüfung zu unterziehen. Zudem wurden Zusammenhänge mit Persönlichkeitsmerkmalen, Absorption und Unsicherheitsintoleranz geprüft. <b><i>Methode:</i></b> An einer Stichprobe der Allgemeinbevölkerung (<i>n</i> = 286) sowie Studierenden (<i>n</i> = 368) wurden mittels einer Hauptkomponentenanalyse die Faktorstruktur untersucht, eine Itemanalyse durchgeführt sowie Korrelationen mit Fragebögen zu dispositionellen Merkmalen berechnet. <b><i>Ergebnisse:</i></b> Der FMKPP zeigte die drei Faktoren: “Mythen zur Wirksamkeit von Psychotherapie”, “Mythen zu psychischen Störungen/Prozessen in der Psychotherapie” und “Mythen bezüglich der Funktionsweise des Gedächtnisses”. Die Reliabilitäten (McDonalds ω) lagen zwischen 0,50 und 0,75. Erwartungskonform zeigte der FMKPP signifikant positive Zusammenhänge mit Absorption und Unsicherheitsintoleranz. <b><i>Schlussfolgerung:</i></b> Vor dem Hintergrund einer ersten psychometrischen Prüfung sollten die Reliabilität sowie die Validität einzelner Items in zukünftigen Studien untersucht werden. Die Assoziation mit Unsicherheitsintoleranz könnte eine Funktion von Mythen im Sinne der Erhöhung von Sicherheit und Vorhersagbarkeit indizieren.
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Smythe T, Adelson JD, Polack S. Systematic review of interventions for reducing stigma experienced by children with disabilities and their families in low‐ and middle‐income countries: state of the evidence. Trop Med Int Health 2020; 25:508-524. [DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Tracey Smythe
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine London UK
| | - Jaimie D Adelson
- Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation University of Washington Seattle WA USA
| | - Sarah Polack
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine London UK
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Fox C. Children's attitudes to people with mental illness. JOURNAL OF APPLIED DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.appdev.2020.101117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Lim CW, Au AK, Turner RN. Imagined contact and mental illness stigma in an Asian context: Bolstering the effect and examining the impact of factual information. JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY & APPLIED SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/casp.2442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Al K.C. Au
- Department of PsychologyNational University of Singapore Singapore
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Rocha Neto HGD, Serra RD, Stefanovics E, Rosenheck R, Cavalcanti MT. Um estudo longitudinal sobre a influência do internato em saúde mental na redução de atitudes negativas de estudantes de Medicina em relação a portadores de transtornos mentais. JORNAL BRASILEIRO DE PSIQUIATRIA 2019. [DOI: 10.1590/0047-2085000000239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
RESUMO Objetivo Avaliar o efeito do internato em saúde mental nas atitudes dos alunos de medicina quanto ao portador de transtorno mental (PTM). Métodos Atitudes foram avaliadas por questionário antes e depois do internato, por meio dos fatores: “aceitação social de PTM” (F1), “não acreditar em causas sobrenaturais para doença mental” (F2), “papéis sociais comuns para PTM” (F3), “acreditar em causas psicossociais para doença mental” (F4), “intimidade” (F5). Diferenças foram avaliadas por meio de testes t, fatores confundidores por ANOVA e correlações entre expectativa de melhora e fatores por Pearson. Resultados 74 de 85 alunos responderam ao questionário. Houve redução significativa em quatro fatores avaliados (F1, p < 0,001, F2, p = 0,002, F3, p = 0,04, F5, p < 0,001). Uma associação entre ter um amigo PTM e F3 foi identificada antes do curso (p = 0,04), porém não após (p = 0,13). Houve correlação positiva entre crenças de melhora e atitudes negativas com o F2 antes do curso (p = 0,01), mas não após. F5 esteve relacionado com a expectativa de melhora (p < 0,001) após o curso, indicando melhores atitudes quando melhor expectativa. Observou-se a melhora da expectativa quanto a resposta ao tratamento da esquizofrenia (p = 0,02), transtorno bipolar (p = 0,03) e transtorno de ansiedade (p = 0,03). Conclusões O internato esteve associado à redução de atitudes negativas com relação aos PTMs. O contato direto com o paciente parece ter influência direta nessa redução. Acreditamos que, mais importante do que possíveis efeitos de esclarecimento sobre causas do adoecimento, a desconstrução do mito sobre o louco violento é essencial para a melhora das atitudes. Estudos com populações de outras regiões do Brasil e voltadas para avaliação do medo de violência são necessários para a confirmação dessa hipótese e do efeito do internato sobre os alunos.
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Gilmore L, Hughes B. Perceptions of schizophrenia in the Australian community: 2005–2017. J Ment Health 2019; 30:440-446. [DOI: 10.1080/09638237.2019.1630720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Linda Gilmore
- Faculty of Education, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Brenda Hughes
- Faculty of Education, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
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Arafa A, Magdi M, Magdy M, Elsharkawy H, Saleh L. Knowledge and attitude of Egyptian parents toward childhood mental disorders. Int J Adolesc Med Health 2019; 34:ijamh-2019-0044. [PMID: 31203258 DOI: 10.1515/ijamh-2019-0044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2019] [Accepted: 03/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parents' awareness of childhood mental disorders can help in early detection and management. This study aimed to assess the knowledge of parents about childhood mental disorders and their attitudes toward children with mental disorders. SUBJECTS AND METHODS Parents of children attending two public primary schools in Beni-Suef city in southern Egypt were invited to participate in this cross-sectional study during the first semester of the academic year 2017/2018. Knowledge and attitude of parents toward childhood mental disorders in addition to their socio-demographic characteristics were evaluated using a self-administered questionnaire. RESULTS A total of 468 parents (41.5% fathers and 58.5% mothers) participated in this study. Only 21.6% of parents had optimal knowledge of risk factors, 33.3% of manifestations/screening, 58.8% of types and 47.6% of treatment, while 42.7% of parents held a positive attitude toward impressions, 43.4% toward social distance, 63.7% toward spiritual treatment, and 59.4% toward chemotherapy and psychotherapy of childhood mental disorders. The multivariable-adjusted regression analyses showed that optimal knowledge associated with urban residence [odds ratio (OR) 1.56, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.05-2.30)] and knowing someone with a mental disorder (OR 1.62, 95% CI 1.08-2.41). The positive attitude was associated with urban residence (OR 1.80, 95% CI 1.18-2.74) and higher education (OR 2.14, 95% CI 1.32-3.48). Knowledge of parents correlated positively with their attitude toward childhood mental disorders (r = 0.258, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION A significant portion of parents in southern Egypt have suboptimal knowledge of childhood mental disorders and hold a negative attitude toward children with mental disorders. Future studies should focus on the possibility of including parents in screening for childhood mental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Arafa
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Marwa Magdi
- Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Mayar Magdy
- Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | | | - Lamiaa Saleh
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
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Loganathan S, Varghese M. Formative research on devising a street play to create awareness about mental illness: Cultural adaptation and targeted approach. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2019; 65:279-288. [PMID: 30977411 DOI: 10.1177/0020764019838306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Poor awareness about mental health and illness is one of the causes for the large treatment gap for all mental disorders across India. MATERIAL We used both qualitative and quantitative methods in devising a street play to enhance knowledge, attitudes and beliefs about mental illness. DISCUSSION The formative research enabled the intervention to remain culturally appropriate to the socio-cultural practices of the targeted rural audience. CONCLUSION Targeted audiences need to be understood carefully for their beliefs and notions about mental health and sickness. Their socio-cultural practices need incorporation in street plays to make them relevant and meaningful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santosh Loganathan
- Department of Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health & Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bangalore, India
| | - Mathew Varghese
- Department of Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health & Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bangalore, India
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Setti VPC, Loch AA, Modelli A, de Almeida Rocca CC, Hungerbuehler I, van de Bilt MT, Gattaz WF, Rössler W. Disclosing the diagnosis of schizophrenia: A pilot study of the 'Coming Out Proud' intervention. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2019; 65:244-251. [PMID: 30915887 DOI: 10.1177/0020764019840057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Schizophrenia is one of the most stigmatized psychiatric disorders, and disclosing it is often a source of stress to individuals with the disorder. The Coming Out Proud (COP) group intervention is designed to reduce the stigma's negative impact and help participants decide if they want to disclose their disorder. AIMS To assess the effect of the COP intervention in individuals with the diagnosis of schizophrenia. METHODS A pilot study of 3 2-hour group lessons (6-12 participants) per week. Individuals were selected from three specialized outpatient services in São Paulo, Brazil; 46 people were willing to participate, 11 dropped out during the intervention and 4 were excluded due to low intelligence quotient (IQ), resulting in a final sample of 31 participants. Outcomes were assessed before ( T0/baseline) and after ( T1/directly) after the COP intervention, and at 3-week follow-up ( T2/3 weeks after T1). We applied eight scales, of which four scales are analyzed in this article (Coming Out with Mental Illness Scale (COMIS), Cognitive Appraisal of Stigma as a Stressor (CogApp), Self-Stigma of Mental Illness Scale-Short Form (SSMIS) and Perceived Devaluation-Discrimination Questionnaire (PDDQ)). RESULTS People who completed the COP intervention showed a significant increase in the decision to disclose their diagnosis (22.5% in T0 vs 67.7% in T2). As to the perception of stigma as a stressor, mean values did not significantly differ after the intervention. Two results had marginal significance: self-stigma was reduced ( T0 = 3.10, SD = 1.70 vs T2 = 2.73, SD = 1.87; p = .063), while perceived discrimination increased ( T0 = 2.68, SD = .55 vs T2 = 2.93, SD = .75; p = .063). CONCLUSION This study suggests that the COP group intervention facilitated participants' disclosure decisions. The results raise questions that require further analysis, taking sociocultural factors into account, as stigma is experienced differently across cultures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viviane Piagentini Candal Setti
- 1 Laboratory of Neurosciences (LIM-27), Department and Institute of Psychiatry, Hospital das Clínicas, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Andrade Loch
- 1 Laboratory of Neurosciences (LIM-27), Department and Institute of Psychiatry, Hospital das Clínicas, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,2 National Institute of Biomarkers in Neuropsychiatry (INBioN), National Council for Scientific and Technological Development, Brazil
| | - Arlete Modelli
- 1 Laboratory of Neurosciences (LIM-27), Department and Institute of Psychiatry, Hospital das Clínicas, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cristiana Castanho de Almeida Rocca
- 3 Psychology and Neuropsychology Service, Department and Institute of Psychiatry, Universidade de São Paulo Medical School, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ines Hungerbuehler
- 1 Laboratory of Neurosciences (LIM-27), Department and Institute of Psychiatry, Hospital das Clínicas, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Martinus Theodorus van de Bilt
- 1 Laboratory of Neurosciences (LIM-27), Department and Institute of Psychiatry, Hospital das Clínicas, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,2 National Institute of Biomarkers in Neuropsychiatry (INBioN), National Council for Scientific and Technological Development, Brazil
| | - Wagner Farid Gattaz
- 1 Laboratory of Neurosciences (LIM-27), Department and Institute of Psychiatry, Hospital das Clínicas, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,2 National Institute of Biomarkers in Neuropsychiatry (INBioN), National Council for Scientific and Technological Development, Brazil
| | - Wulf Rössler
- 1 Laboratory of Neurosciences (LIM-27), Department and Institute of Psychiatry, Hospital das Clínicas, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,2 National Institute of Biomarkers in Neuropsychiatry (INBioN), National Council for Scientific and Technological Development, Brazil.,4 Psychiatric University Hospital, Zürich University, Zürich, Switzerland.,5 Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Change in Mental Health Stigma After a Brief Intervention Among Internally Displaced Persons in Central Sudan. Community Ment Health J 2019; 55:534-541. [PMID: 30771120 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-019-00375-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2017] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Stigmatizing attitudes towards people with mental illness is a worldwide phenomenon, This Longitudinal study aimed to determine the level of stigma, among the internal displaced persons in central Sudan and explore possible changes in stigma associated with an intervention. 1549 persons were interviewed using standardized stigma attitude tools. The study reveled high level of stigma among our respondents and there was no significant difference in attitudes towards mental illness observed after the intervention. The intervention was not associated with change in stigma. However, the findings can inform policy to create sustainable national mental health strategies to address the stigma.
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Belayneh Z, Abebaw D, Amare T, Haile K, Abebe Z. Perception regarding the causes of schizophrenia and associated factors among Feresbet district residents: a community based study. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:338. [PMID: 30909977 PMCID: PMC6434636 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-6678-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A wide variety of beliefs exist in the public towards schizophrenia. Community perception about the causes of schizophrenia can affect the way of seeking help, treatment outcomes, and community integration of individuals with schizophrenia. Therefore, assessing the community perception and associated factors about the causes of schizophrenia is vital. Method A cross-sectional study was conducted among Feresbet district residents through a multi- stage sampling technique. A causal model questionnaire for schizophrenia (CMQS) was used to assess the perceived causes of schizophrenia. The collected data were explored to SPSS version 20 for analysis. Bi-variable and multi variable logistic regression were computed to identify factors associated with the traditional perception about the causes of schizophrenia and the level of significance were determined at a P- value < 0.05 with 95% CI. Results Out of the total study participants, about 73.7% had the traditional perception regarding the causes of schizophrenia. According to multivariate analysis, female sex, no formal education, age ≥ 25 years, living in the extended family system, and being unemployed had a significant association with the traditional perception of the cause of schizophrenia. Conclusions The traditional perception of the cause of schizophrenia is higher than the bio-psycho-social view. Female sex, no formal education, age ≥ 25 years, living in an extended families and unemployed had a significant association with the traditional perception of the causes of schizophrenia. Therefore, giving special attention to females, uneducated and unemployed individual is crucial. In addition, older age and individuals living in extended family system need attention regarding the possible causes of schizophrenia. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12889-019-6678-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zelalem Belayneh
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia.
| | - Dessie Abebaw
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Tadele Amare
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Kibrom Haile
- Amanuel Mental Specialized Hospital, Research and Training Directorate Office, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Zegeye Abebe
- Department of Human Nutrition, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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Abolfotouh MA, Almutairi AF, Almutairi Z, Salam M, Alhashem A, Adlan AA, Modayfer O. Attitudes toward mental illness, mentally ill persons, and help-seeking among the Saudi public and sociodemographic correlates. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2019; 12:45-54. [PMID: 30679929 PMCID: PMC6338115 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s191676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background It has been reported that the majority of individuals with mental illnesses (MIs) do not seek help. Few studies have focused on correlates of a positive attitude toward professional help-seeking for MI. This study aimed to determine levels of knowledge, perception, and attitudes toward MI, determine attitudes toward mental health help-seeking, and identify sociodemographic predictors of correct knowledge and favorable attitudes among the Saudi public. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted on 650 Saudi adults aged >18 years who attended the Saudi Jenadriyah annual cultural and heritage festival during February 2016. The previously validated Attitudes to Mental Illness Questionnaire was used. Attitude to professional help-seeking was also assessed, using a tool retrieved from the World Mental Health Composite International Diagnostic Interview part II. Multiple regression analyses were applied, and statistical significance considered at P<0.05. Results The majority of the Saudi public reported lack of knowledge about the nature of MI (87.5%, percentage mean score [PMS] 45.02±19.98), negative perception (59%, PMS 59.76±9.16), negative attitudes to MI (66.5%, PMS 65.86±7.77), and negative attitudes to professional help-seeking (54.5%, PMS 62.45±8.54). Marital status was a predictor of knowledge (t=-3.12, P=0.002), attitudes to MI (t=2.93, P=0.003), and attitudes to help-seeking (t=2.20, P=0.03). Attitudes to help-seeking were also predicted by sex (t=-2.72, P=0.007), employment (t=3.05, P=0.002), and monthly income (t=2.79, P=0.005). Perceptions toward the mentally ill were not predicted by these socioeconomic characteristics (P>0.05). Conclusion The Saudi public reported lack of knowledge of MI and stigmatizing attitudes toward people with MI in relation to treatment, work, marriage, and recovery and toward professional help-seeking. Sociodemographic characteristics predicted correct knowledge and favorable attitudes, while Saudi culture was the likely factor behind negative judgments about mentally ill persons. Efforts to challenge this negative publicity and stigma through antistigma campaigns and public education through schools and media are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa A Abolfotouh
- Research Training and Development Section, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center/King Saud bin-Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia,
| | - Adel F Almutairi
- Science and Technology Unit, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center/King Saud bin-Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Zainab Almutairi
- Stem Cells Donor Registry, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center/King Saud bin-Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mahmoud Salam
- Science and Technology Unit, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center/King Saud bin-Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Anwar Alhashem
- Research Training and Development Section, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center/King Saud bin-Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia,
| | - Abdallah A Adlan
- Bioethics Section, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center/King Saud bin-Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Omar Modayfer
- Division of Mental Health, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Ministry of National Guard-Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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The effect of media reporting of a homicide committed by a patient with schizophrenia on the public stigma and knowledge of psychosis among the general population of Hong Kong. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2019; 54:43-50. [PMID: 30315332 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-018-1610-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to investigate the effects of media reporting of a homicide committed by a patient with schizophrenia on the knowledge about and stigma regarding psychosis among the general Hong Kong population. The effects of using the term 'schizophrenia (jing-shen-fen-lei)' in the news on the perceptions of the new Chinese term 'psychosis (si-jue-shi-tiao)' were explored. METHODS Random telephone surveys of the general Hong Kong population were conducted in April 2009 (1 month before the incident) and June 2009 (1 week after the incident). Stigma was measured with the Link's Perceived Discrimination-Devaluation Scale (LPDDS). Knowledge about the symptoms, treatment and belief of dangerousness of psychosis were assessed. The emotional reaction of the public to the news was explored, and its effects on knowledge and stigma were studied. RESULTS Overall, 1016 and 506 participants completed the two surveys. More participants in the post-incident survey agreed that people with psychosis are dangerous to the public (χ2 = 4.934, p = 0.026). However, no significant differences were observed in the LPDDS scores. Participants who reported a high level of distress related to the news were more likely to perceive people with psychosis as dangerous to the public (χ2 = 6.738, p = 0.009). Women and older people reported greater distress. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that media reporting of violent incidents involving people with schizophrenia increases the public belief in the dangerousness of people with psychosis but not the overall stigma. Further studies of the differential effects of violence reporting on public perceptions about people with psychosis and schizophrenia are warranted.
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Von Lersner U, Gerb J, Hizli S, Waldhuber D, Wallerand AF, Bajbouj M, Schomerus G, Angermeyer MC, Hahn E. Stigma of Mental Illness in Germans and Turkish Immigrants in Germany: The Effect of Causal Beliefs. Front Psychiatry 2019; 10:46. [PMID: 30814959 PMCID: PMC6381049 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Stigma poses an additional burden for people suffering from mental illness, one that often impairs their social participation and can prevent them from seeking adequate help. It is therefore crucial to understand how stigma develops in order to counteract it by setting up effective evidence-based anti-stigma interventions. The present study examines the effect of causal beliefs on stigmatizing behavioral intentions, namely people's desire to distance themselves from persons with mental illness. In addition, we draw cross-cultural comparisons between native Germans and Turkish immigrants to investigate the influence of culture on stigma and causal beliefs and to broaden knowledge on the biggest immigrant group in Germany and on immigrants in Western countries in general. Methods: n = 302 native Germans and n = 173 Turkish immigrants were presented either a depression or a schizophrenia vignette. Then, causal beliefs, emotional reaction and desire for social distance were assessed with questionnaires. Path analyses were carried out to investigate the influence of causal beliefs on the desire for social distance and their mediation by emotional reactions for Germans and Turkish immigrants, respectively. Results: We found an influence of causal beliefs on the desire for social distance. Emotional reactions partly mediated this relationship. Causal attribution patterns as well as the relationship between causal attributions and stigma varied across both subsamples and mental illnesses. In the German subsample, the ascription of unfavorable personal traits resulted in more stigma. In the Turkish immigrant subsample, supernatural causal beliefs increased stigma while attribution to current stress reduced stigma. Conclusion: Our study has implications for future anti-stigma interventions that intend to reduce stigmatization of mentally ill people. Targeting the ascription of unfavorable personal traits and supernatural causal attributions as well as promoting current stress as the cause for mental illness appears to be of particular importance. Also, the mediating influence of emotional responses to causal beliefs needs to be addressed. Furthermore, differential interventions across cultural groups and specific mental illnesses may be appropriate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike Von Lersner
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Humboldt University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Julia Gerb
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Humboldt University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Serdar Hizli
- Friedrich von Bodelschwingh-Klinik, Berlin, Germany
| | - Daniel Waldhuber
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Humboldt University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Malek Bajbouj
- Charité Medical University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Georg Schomerus
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | | | - Eric Hahn
- Charité Medical University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Public recognition of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in Korea: Correct identification, causes, treatments, and social distance. Asian J Psychiatr 2018; 38:3-8. [PMID: 30359845 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2018.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2018] [Revised: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 10/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To examine the Korean public's recognition of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), its sociodemographic correlates, and its implications for lay beliefs and social attitudes. METHODS Six hundred seventy-three Korean adults were recruited for an online survey. Participants completed questionnaires on sociodemographic characteristics and their familiarity with ADHD. Participants were then provided with a vignette describing a person with ADHD symptoms, and subsequently were asked to answer whether the person had any sort of problem. Among the 673 participants who were initially recruited, those who recognized any problem responded to subsequent questions concerning the exact identification of the disorder, their beliefs about its etiology and treatment, and their preferences for social distance. RESULTS It was found that 30.8% of participants perceived no problem and that 23.9% of those who did recognize a problem correctly identified ADHD as the diagnosis. Female gender, younger age, higher family income, higher education level, and having had any acquaintance with ADHD were associated with the correct identification of ADHD. The correct identification of ADHD was positively associated with behavioral/discipline beliefs and decreased social distance toward persons with ADHD, whereas it was negatively associated with beliefs concerning diet and personal characteristics. DISCUSSION The present study highlights the importance of the accurate recognition of ADHD in relation to appropriate beliefs about its etiology, treatment strategies, and better social attitudes toward persons with ADHD.
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Park S, Lee Y, Kim CE. Korean adults' beliefs about and social distance toward attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, Tourette syndrome, and autism spectrum disorder. Psychiatry Res 2018; 269:633-639. [PMID: 30212793 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2018.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2018] [Revised: 06/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Given the scarcity of studies examining public beliefs regarding multiple neurodevelopmental disorders, this study compared lay beliefs regarding the etiology of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Tourette syndrome (TS), and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and attitudes toward individuals with the disorders. We recruited 673 participants aged 20-64 years via an online panel survey in South Korea. Participants completed questionnaires regarding perceived causation of each disorder. Preferred social distance from people with the disorders was measured using a modified version of the Bogardus Social Distance Scale. Four causal factors were revealed: dietary/physical, social-environmental, biological, and volitive/religious. ADHD causes were considered more social-environmental relative to TS and ASD causes, while ASD causes were considered more dietary/physical and biological relative to ADHD and TS causes. Preferred social distances for ASD and TS were the highest and lowest, respectively. Greater social distance from individuals with ADHD and TS was associated with older age; having close family members, relatives, or friends with the disorder; and beliefs regarding biological etiology. Greater social distance from individuals with ASD was associated with beliefs regarding biological etiology. Beliefs regarding ADHD, TS, and ASD causes and attitudes toward the disorders differed, and beliefs regarding etiology affected preferred social distance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subin Park
- Department of Research Planning, Mental Health Research Institute, National Center for Mental Health, Seoul, South Korea.
| | - Yeeun Lee
- Department of Research Planning, Mental Health Research Institute, National Center for Mental Health, Seoul, South Korea.
| | - Chul Eung Kim
- Department of Research Planning, Mental Health Research Institute, National Center for Mental Health, Seoul, South Korea.
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Burke TA, Piccirillo ML, Moore-Berg SL, Alloy LB, Heimberg RG. The stigmatization of nonsuicidal self-injury. J Clin Psychol 2018; 75:481-498. [PMID: 30368804 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.22713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2018] [Revised: 08/01/2018] [Accepted: 08/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Despite the high prevalence of nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI), no research has systematically studied the occurrence and effects of stigmatization by others towards NSSI scarring. METHODS The current study measured implicit and explicit attitudes among undergraduates towards NSSI scarring using the implicit association test and questionnaires to compare implicit and explicit biases towards NSSI with biases towards tattoos, a culturally sanctioned form of self-determined marking, as well as nonintentional disfigurement. RESULTS Our study demonstrated strong negative implicit and explicit biases towards NSSI when comparing NSSI to tattoos and nonintentional disfigurement. CONCLUSIONS Results extend previous research describing stigma towards mental illness and suggest a large negative bias towards NSSI. The importance of studying how stigma affects those who bear scarring from NSSI is discussed.
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Zolezzi M, Alamri M, Shaar S, Rainkie D. Stigma associated with mental illness and its treatment in the Arab culture: A systematic review. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2018; 64:597-609. [PMID: 30019976 DOI: 10.1177/0020764018789200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mental health has not had the same public profile as physical health. This has contributed to the stigma associated with mental illness and to its treatments. Research investigating how the traditions and values amongst those with an Arab heritage contribute to stigmatizing beliefs, attitudes or actions in the provision of mental healthcare has not been widely reported. AIM To systematically review the literature and summarize the findings of studies reporting stigmatizing beliefs, actions and attitudes toward treatment of people with mental illness in the Arab population. METHODS PubMed, Ovid, Psycharticles and Embase were used to identify original studies of non-institutionalized Arab adults or children reporting findings relevant to stigma toward mental illness. A manual search of the bibliography of all selected original studies was also undertaken. Independent data extraction was performed by two reviewers, who then met to compare data and reach consensus. Findings were classified as stigmatizing beliefs, actions or attitudes toward mental health treatments. RESULTS A total of 33 articles were retrieved for full review. Those utilizing qualitative methodology provided insight into the many ways mental illness is viewed and defined among those with an Arab heritage. Among the studies using quantitative methodology, most compared stigmatizing beliefs, attitudes toward mental health treatments or stigmatizing actions among different Arab populations, some also investigated correlations between characteristics of the Arab population tested with stigmatizing beliefs, actions and attitudes toward mental health treatments. Findings from studies undertaken in Qatar reported greater stigmatizing beliefs, actions or attitudes toward mental health treatments among Qatari versus non-Qatari Arabs. CONCLUSION A large diversity in the stigmatizing beliefs, actions and attitudes toward treatment of mental illness within the Arab population were identified. The influence of cultural variations on stigma should be explored further and used to tailor anti-stigma interventions in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maha Alamri
- College of Pharmacy, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Shahd Shaar
- College of Pharmacy, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
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Attitudes of U.S. Psychiatry Residents and Fellows towards Mental Illness and its Causes: a Comparison Study with Medical Students. Psychiatr Q 2018; 89:581-588. [PMID: 29332234 DOI: 10.1007/s11126-018-9562-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Stigma towards people with mental illness remains a burden for patients and healthcare providers. This study at a large US university examined the attitudes of psychiatry residents and fellows towards mental illness and its causes, and whether their attitudes differed from the medical student attitudes previously studied utilizing the same survey method. An electronic questionnaire examining attitudes toward people with mental illness, causes of mental Illness, and treatment efficacy was used to survey the attitudes of psychiatry residents and fellows. Exploratory factor analysis derived from the authors' medical student survey was used to examine attitudinal factors. The study response rate was 54.2% (n = 94). Factor analysis employed three factors previously identified reflecting social acceptance of mental illness, belief in supernatural causes, and belief in biopsychosocial causes. Residents and fellows reporting more personal experiences with mental illness, both as a group and when compared with medical students, were significantly more willing to socialize with the mentally ill. Respondents who had more professional (work) experience other than medical school or post-graduate training were less likely to believe in supernatural causes of mental illness. Female residents and fellows were more willing to socialize with the mentally ill, and were less likely to believe in supernatural causes for mental illness than their male counterparts. In our study, increased social acceptance of the mentally ill relates to having personal experiences, advanced training in psychiatry, and female gender. Both professional experiences outside of training and female gender reduced the belief in supernatural causes.
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Iheanacho T, Stefanovics E, Ezeanolue EE. Clergy's Beliefs About Mental Illness and Their Perception of Its Treatability: Experience from a Church-Based Prevention of Mother-to-Child HIV Transmission (PMTCT) Trial in Nigeria. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2018; 57:1483-1496. [PMID: 29335920 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-017-0545-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Clergy participating in the Healthy Beginning Initiative (N = 45), a program utilizing church workers to integrate packages of care into church activities, completed a 43-item self-administered questionnaire assessing their attitudes and beliefs about mental disorders and perception of their treatability. A majority believed that drug/alcohol use, stress and genetic inheritance could cause mental illness and that society needed to adopt more tolerant attitude toward people with mental disorders. Clergy with contact with people with mental disorders were more likely to perceive depression as treatable. In conclusion, participants had positive attitudes toward mental disorders with some believing that they are treatable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theddeus Iheanacho
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, 300 George St., Suite 901, New Haven, CT, 06511, USA.
| | - Elina Stefanovics
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, 300 George St., Suite 901, New Haven, CT, 06511, USA
| | - Echezona E Ezeanolue
- HealthySunrise Foundation, 8752 Castle Ridge Ave, Las Vegas, NV, 89129, USA
- University of Nevada School of Medicine, 2040 W. Charleston Blvd. Suite 402, Las Vegas, NV, 89102, USA
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Chisholm K, Patterson P, Greenfield S, Turner E, Birchwood M. Adolescent construction of mental illness: implication for engagement and treatment. Early Interv Psychiatry 2018; 12:626-636. [PMID: 27168481 DOI: 10.1111/eip.12347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2015] [Accepted: 03/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Understanding how adolescents perceive mental illness is important for clinicians wishing to improve engagement, and for the development of educational programmes and health-behaviour directed policies. The current research aimed to develop a preliminary model of how adolescents perceive mental illness and construct their understanding of mental health. METHOD Forty-six participants aged 11-18 from six schools in Birmingham, UK, took part in one of 12 group interviews. RESULTS A thematic analysis highlighted a dual perception of mental illness. Adolescents discussed stereotypes and extreme examples of illness, but also displayed an insightful understanding of mental distress which had developed through participants' own experiences. Participants attempted to reconcile and negotiate these conflicting perceptions by creating distinctions between concepts of 'craziness' and 'normality', and reported experiencing negative emotions relating to both perceptions of illness. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that once media stereotypes have been acknowledged, adolescents demonstrate a relatively sophisticated understanding of mental illness, although one which differed at times from the diagnostic medical model of mental illness. Focusing on individual symptoms, prevalence rates and prior contact adolescents have had with individuals with mental illnesses provides a framework to discuss mental health and ill-health with adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine Chisholm
- School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
| | - Paul Patterson
- Youth Programme, Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health Foundation Trust, Research and Innovation, Birmingham, UK
| | - Sheila Greenfield
- School of Health and Population Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Erin Turner
- Early Intervention Services, Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health Foundation Trust, Newington Resource Centre, Marston Green, Birmingham, UK
| | - Max Birchwood
- School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
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Akinsulore A, Esimai OA, Mapayi BM, Aloba OO. Public Awareness and Attitude Towards Depression: A Community Based Study Among an Adult Population in Ile-Ife South-Western Nigeria. Community Ment Health J 2018; 54:866-874. [PMID: 29368131 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-017-0222-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2015] [Accepted: 12/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Depression has become a global health priority due to its associated burden. However, there is dearth of information regarding the public awareness and attitude towards depression in Nigeria. This study aimed to assess the level of public awareness and attitude towards depression in a semi-urban Nigerian community. A cross-sectional study conducted among 240 respondents with mean age of 34.7 years (± 1.2 years). A questionnaire assessed socio-demographic characteristics, level of awareness and attitude of people towards depression. While most respondents (72.5%) had heard about depression, it was less recognized as a major mental health problem. Also, most respondents (58.6%) had negative attitudes toward depression. There is low level of awareness of depression as a major health problem among community dwellers in South-western Nigeria and negative attitudes towards the illness also appear prevalent. Therefore, awareness should be improved through public health enlightenment programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adesanmi Akinsulore
- Department of Mental Health, College of Health Sciences, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria.
| | - Olapeju A Esimai
- Department of Community Health, College of Health Sciences, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria
| | - Boladale M Mapayi
- Department of Mental Health, College of Health Sciences, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria
| | - Olutayo O Aloba
- Department of Mental Health, College of Health Sciences, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria
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Grandón P, Aguilera AV, Bustos C, Alzate EC, Saldivia S. Evaluation of the stigma towards people with a diagnosis of Schizophrenia using a Knowledge Scale. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 47:72-81. [PMID: 29754709 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcp.2017.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2016] [Revised: 01/05/2017] [Accepted: 01/29/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Social stigma is the assigning of negative stereotypes to people with schizophrenia. Different measurement tools have been used to evaluate this, including knowledge scales. The aim of this study was to evaluate the public stigma by measuring this knowledge and relate the degree of information with variables that have shown to influence on stigma presented by the affected population. METHODS The sample was composed of 399 people and the inclusion criterion was being between 18 and 65 years of age. The "Questionnaire of knowledge on schizophrenia" was applied, as well as a questionnaire to collect sociodemographic information. Participants were recruited in places with large crowds. The following analyses were performed: multiple correlations, non-parametric bivariate and hierarchical clusters. RESULTS The questionnaire had two dimensions: "Beliefs on the knowledge of schizophrenia" and "Attitudes towards schizophrenia". There are significant differences between them, and the contact with people with SMI. In the analysis of clusters, there was difference in the two groups according to the combination of the two dimensions of the tools. CONCLUSIONS It is highlighted that none of the dimensions measures true knowledge, and the questionnaire has an attitudinal dimension. More than contact itself, it is the type of interaction of a relevant variable at the level of stigma that questions the traditional hypothesis of contact. Further research is required on the characteristics of the tool and the aspects of the contact associated to a lower level of stigma in the population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Grandón
- Departamento de Psicología, Facultad de Ciencias Sociales, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile.
| | - Alexis Vielma Aguilera
- Departamento de Psiquiatría y Salud Mental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Claudio Bustos
- Departamento de Psiquiatría y Salud Mental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | | | - Sandra Saldivia
- Departamento de Psiquiatría y Salud Mental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
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Yang Y, Parrott S. Schizophrenia in Chinese and U.S. Online News Media: Exploring Cultural Influence on the Mediated Portrayal of Schizophrenia. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2018; 33:553-561. [PMID: 28278613 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2017.1283562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Drawing on the constructionist framing approach, this quantitative content analysis compares online news coverage of schizophrenia in China and the United States in 2015. Incorporating the concept of individualism-collectivism, this study seeks to unveil the effects of culture on the framing of causes, solutions, responsibility attribution, and discourse types. The findings reveal that the link between cultural orientation and the media's framing of schizophrenia is not simple, as both cross-cultural consistency and differences were observed. In addition, compared to U.S. online media, Chinese online news outlets were more likely to cover schizophrenia episodically, while placing more problem-solving responsibility on society. Moreover, examining stigma and challenge cues, this study also found that schizophrenia was more severely stigmatized in Chinese than in U.S. online news platforms. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiyi Yang
- a College of Communication and Information Sciences , The University of Alabama
| | - Scott Parrott
- a College of Communication and Information Sciences , The University of Alabama
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Evaluating capacity-building for mental health system strengthening in low- and middle-income countries for service users and caregivers, service planners and researchers. Epidemiol Psychiatr Sci 2018; 27:3-10. [PMID: 28854998 PMCID: PMC6998880 DOI: 10.1017/s2045796017000440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Efforts to support the scale-up of integrated mental health care in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) need to focus on building human resource capacity in health system strengthening, as well as in the direct provision of mental health care. In a companion editorial, we describe a range of capacity-building activities that are being implemented by a multi-country research consortium (Emerald: Emerging mental health systems in low- and middle-income countries) for (1) service users and caregivers, (2) service planners and policy-makers and (3) researchers in six LMICs (Ethiopia, India, Nepal, Nigeria, South Africa and Uganda). In this paper, we focus on the methodology being used to evaluate the impact of capacity-building in these three target groups. We first review the evidence base for approaches to evaluation of capacity-building, highlighting the gaps in this area. We then describe the adaptation of best practice for the Emerald capacity-building evaluation. The resulting mixed method evaluation framework was tailored to each target group and to each country context. We identified a need to expand the evidence base on indicators of successful capacity-building across the different target groups. To address this, we developed an evaluation plan to measure the adequacy and usefulness of quantitative capacity-building indicators when compared with qualitative evaluation. We argue that evaluation needs to be an integral part of capacity-building activities and that expertise needs to be built in methods of evaluation. The Emerald evaluation provides a potential model for capacity-building evaluation across key stakeholder groups and promises to extend understanding of useful indicators of success.
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Abstract
‘Medicine is a social science, and politics nothing but medicine on a grand scale.’ (Rudolph Virchov, 1848, quoted in Link & Phelan, 1996)Discrimination and prejudice against people with mental illnesses is ubiquitous, pernicious and wrong. The overwhelming case against such stigma has been recognised by initiatives from the UK government, the Royal College of Psychiatrists, the US Surgeon General, the World Psychiatric Association and many other organisations
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