The Role of Formal Education in the Rehabilitation of Persons with Chronic Schizophrenia

Abstract

Rehabilitation services seek to address the various needs of persons with chronic schizophrenia but little attention has been paid to their participation informal education . This study surveyed the educational needs of this population . It was hypothesised that these needs are often unmet and that their expression is influenced by an individual's history, expectations and knowledge in relation to education . A questionnaire was administered to 60 subjects in the context of a structured interview . Of the total sample, 26 individuals expressed an interest in further education but only two were currently participating in educational courses . Twelve individuals had recently enquired about further education . Analyses of the data revealed that expressed interest in education was significantly associated with an individual's background and age and with how they construed the associated benefits and difficulties . The implications of the findings for rehabilitation services are discussed .

Choose-get-keep: A psychiatric rehabilitation approach to supported education.

“…The same could be said for experience relating to supported education. Navin et al (1989) also found that “the level of schooling attained was... significantly related to the anticipation of problems and benefits associated with participation in further education” (p. 141). Students who have experienced the trials and tribulations, as well as the joys and successes of educational achievement, have more knowledge about the learning environment and therefore know what to expect.…”

“…This type of supportive intervention is shown in the literature to be needed. Navin, Lewis, and Higson (1989) showed that although 35% of the people they sampled had attempted involvement with formal education, only 8 % completed their course of study. Many people who have psychiatric disabilities may benefit from accessing resources and additional supports in order to be successful in their learning environments.…”