A randomised controlled trial to explore insight into psychosis; effects of a psycho-education programme on insight in a forensic population

Abstract

A psycho-education programme for people with psychosis has been delivered across forensic services for years. A multi-site randomised controlled trial was carried out over a three and a half year period, to review the effectiveness of the programme. A range of psychometric instruments were used to measure the following: insight; knowledge of psychosis; general mental health, including depression, quality of life, and social behaviour. Results from (n = 81) indicate a significant improvement in knowledge and empathy. An improvement was also noted in the measures of insight, mental health, and quality of life, although they did not reach significance. In conclusion, psycho-education has a place in forensic clinical practice. It is recommended that psycho-education programmes are used across the forensic network as part of a package of care, to improve the patient experience and reduce the likelihood of re-offending.

Keywords:

• randomised
• psychosis
• mentally disordered offenders
• intervention
• forensic mental health