Evaluation of a psychoeducation program for Chinese clients with schizophrenia and their family caregivers

To evaluate the effectiveness of a psychoeducation program for Chinese clients with schizophrenia and their family caregivers.

A randomized controlled trial was conducted. Seventy-three clients with a diagnosis of schizophrenia and their caregivers (n=73) were recruited and randomized into a study (n=36) and control group (n=37). Ten psychoeducation sessions were provided to the study group. The outcomes were measured at the baseline, immediately after (post-1), six months (post-2), and 12 months after the intervention (post-3).

There were significant treatment effects across time for all client outcomes: adherence to medication (p<0.01), mental status (p<0.01), and insight into illness (p<0.01). However, no significant differences were found between groups at the post-3 measures for all client outcomes. For the caregivers, significant group differences were only detected in self-efficacy at the post-1 (p=0.007) and post-2 (p<0.001) measures, the level of satisfaction at the post-1 (p=0.033) and post-2 (p<0.021) measures, and the perception of family burden at the post-2 measures (p=0.043).

A psychoeducation intervention had positive effects on Chinese clients and their caregivers. However, these effects might not be sustained 12 months after the intervention.

To substantiate its effects, psychoeducation should be an ongoing intervention, with its outcomes constantly evaluated.