An assessment of family care for people living with schizophrenia in Delta State of Nigeria

Abstract

This study aimed to assess attitudes and beliefs affecting family care for people living with schizophrenia. The research design was observational through in-depth interviews and family group discussions. The participants were sixty family members sampled from the five ethnic groups that constitute Delta State in Nigeria. Data were generated via a structured interview schedule and family discussions reflecting Expressed Emotion of family members. The findings show that deeply held cultural beliefs and traditional myths significantly hamper care for family members with schizophrenia. A model of holistic family care is proffered.

Keywords:

• carers
• caregiving
• family
• schizophrenia
• stigma
• myths
• traditional beliefs
• culture