Psychiatrists' stigma towards individuals with schizophrenia
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1590/S0101-60832011000500001Keywords:
Stigma, stereotypes, prejudice, social distance, schizophrenia, mental health professionalsAbstract
BACKGROUND: Literature on how the general population stigmatizes individuals with mental disorders has increased considerably over the last decades. But the question remains if psychiatrists also stigmatize their patients. OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed to assess Brazilian psychiatrists' attitude towards individuals with schizophrenia. METHODS: Out of the approximately 6,000 participants of the 2009 National Psychiatry Congress in Brazil, 1,414 psychiatrists agreed to undergo the survey. Face-to-face interviews were conducted using a questionnaire that assessed stigma in three dimensions: stereotypes, social distance and prejudice towards a person with schizophrenia. Their opinion on psychotropic drugs and tolerance of side-effects were also assessed. Socio-demographic and professional data were collected. RESULTS: Brazilian psychiatrists tend to negatively stereotype individuals with schizophrenia. More negative stereotypes correlated with a positive opinion on psychotropic drugs and with a higher tolerance of side-effects. Higher age was correlated with positive stereotyping and with less prejudice. DISCUSSION: Psychiatrists stigmatize individuals with schizophrenia and possibly find it difficulty admit this fact. Anti-stigma campaigns among mental health professionals should be promoted.Downloads
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Published
2011-01-01
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Original Articles
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How to Cite
Psychiatrists’ stigma towards individuals with schizophrenia . (2011). Archives of Clinical Psychiatry, 38(5), 173-177. https://doi.org/10.1590/S0101-60832011000500001