| Stigma and Schizophrenia in Alberta | ||||||||
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Attitudes toward people with mental illness seem
to be improving. A questionnaire was administered to over 1200
individuals in three Alberta cities, to 40 members of the Schizophrenia
Society of Alberta, and to 67 medical students. "Loss of mind" was
rated to be more disabling than any other handicapping condition and
causation was attributed to biological factors (brain chemistry and
genetics). Respondents showed a sophisticated understanding of
schizophrenia and a surprisingly high level of acceptance for community
residential living (see Figure). Acceptance was not as high for contact
closer to home, and fears of dangerousness continue to be associated
with schizophrenia. However, the majority felt that treatment helped,
supported progressive interventions, and stated a willingness to pay
higher taxes to improve programs. The results do not support the use of a broad anti-stigma type of campaign, but rather suggest a specific focus on perceived dangerousness and a call for participation/action. |
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| Source: Thompson AH, Stuart H, Bland RC, Arboleda-Florez J, Warner R, Dickson RA (2002). Attitudes about schizophrenia from the pilot site of the WPA Worldwide Campaign Against the Stigma of Schizophrenia. Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology 37, 475-482. Click here for a copy. | ||||||||
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