The effects of a documentary film on reducing stigmatisation about schizophrenia

Abstract

Negative public reactions towards people with mental health problems, and in particular those diagnosed with schizophrenia, may result in a number of negative consequences, including aggravating their condition and making it even more difficult for them to assimilate into society. The present study examined young people’s attitudes about schizophrenia and evaluated the effect of a documentary film (depicting the lives of people diagnosed with schizophrenia) on reducing stigmatization about schizophrenia. One hundred and fifteen undergraduate psychology students first provided information concerning their attitudes and knowledge about schizophrenia, in addition to filling out a questionnaire assessing their degree of acceptance of negative stereotypes and degree of social distance towards schizophrenia patients. One week later, participants viewed the documentary film and completed the same questionnaire. The film significantly and positively influenced participants’ negative attitudes concerning schizophrenia. In particular, after having watched the film, participants revealed less negative and derogatory stereotypical attitudes about schizophrenia and desired less social distance with schizophrenia patients. This change was not related to social desirability, age, sex or years of education.

Keywords:

• schizophrenia
• stigmatisation
• social distance
• stereotype
• documentary film
• attitudes

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank Jöel Billeux for recruiting participants and David Stawarczyk for data entry. We are also indebted to Karin Rondia and Isabelle Truc (Iota Production) for allowing us to use the documentary film, and to the members of asbl Réflexions. Copies of the documentary film “Radio Schizo” (in French) may be obtained at: www.dvdoc.be.