Putting the person back into psychopathology: an intervention to reduce mental illness stigma in the classroom

Abstract

Together, these studies suggest that traditional methods of teaching psychopathology do not lessen mental illness stigma, a serious concern that can potentially be reconciled by incorporating more person-centered instructional methods. Results are discussed in terms of their implications for the way psychopathology is taught throughout the mental health field, as well as the practical application of stigma interventions woven into the curriculum.

Improving psychology students’ attitudes toward people with schizophrenia: A quasi-randomized controlled study.

“…These findings confirm the hypothesis that such an educational, contact-based initiative can facilitate students' acceptance of an integrated bio-psycho-social model of care in schizophrenia (Deacon & McKay, 2015), and support the favorable changes found at immediate post intervention assessment in previous studies (Brown et al, 2010;Magliano et al, 2014;Mann & Himelein, 2008).…”

Discussing the psychiatric manifestations of 22q11.2 deletion syndrome: an exploration of clinical practice among medical geneticists

“…Therefore, future studies might attempt to identify how, when, and by whom the psychiatric manifestations of the condition could be routinely brought to parents' attention to allow for timely treatment. Our data also suggest that implementing changes in training and continuing education for medical geneticists to reduce stigmatizing attitudes toward psychiatric disorders, 23,29,[38][39][40] and to increase awareness of the types and typical ages of onset of psychiatric conditions that people with 22q11DS can experience, have the potential to positively influence clinical practice.…”

Effects of a Documentary Film on Public Stigma Related to Mental Illness Among Genetic Counselors

“…Of the three levels at which stigma operates, public stigma (defined as the phenomenon whereby large social groups have negative attitudes towards and beliefs about, and even act against those with a disenfranchised trait -like mental illness (Corrigan and Watson 2002)) has received the greatest attention. Public stigma related to mental illness has been investigated in a broad range of groups including the general public Kobau et al 2009), students (Brown 2008;Chan et al 2009;Corrigan et al 2001;Faigin and Stein 2008;Mann and Himelein 2008;Penn et al 1994;Reinke et al 2004) police , and mental health workers Schulze 2007). In all groups in which public stigma has been investigated, negative beliefs about, and attitudes and behaviors towards individuals with mental illness have been identified.…”

“…In particular, social contact with members of a stigmatized group has been shown to be effective in reducing negative attitudes concerning the labeled out-groups (Chan et al 2009;Faigin and Stein 2008;Mann and Himelein 2008;Penn et al 1994). As logistical issues can hinder the widespread implementation of direct social contact with individuals with mental illnesses, the effects on public stigma of film interventions featuring individuals with mental illnes have been tested, and show similar stigma reducing effects as direct social contact and education about these disorders (Chan et al 2009;Faigin and Stein 2008;Penn et al 2003;Reinke et al 2004).…”