Attitudes and perceptions of schizophrenia : the perceptions of mental health professionals have of public attitudes towards schizophrenia and the effects on the recovery process

Abstract

The aim of this research project is to find out about the perceptions of mental health professionals have of public attitudes towards schizophrenia and the effects on the recovery process. A qualitative study was carried out with semi structured interviews conducted with six mental health professionals. A thematic analysis was used to investigate the data that emerged from the interviews. The results show that there is a negative public attitude towards schizophrenia and this can affect their recovery process depending on the circumstances. This is mainly due to the publics lack of education and awareness of schizophrenia. The conclusion summarises methods that can be taken to change this.