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[A myth of Jekyll and Hyde?]
Björn Schlier1, Tania M Lincoln
1Fachbereich Psychologie, Universität Hamburg. bjoern.schlier@studium.unihamburg.de
Psychiatrische Praxis
|March 6, 2013
Summary
The belief that schizophrenia involves a split personality is linked to increased stigma. This misconception fuels negative stereotypes and social distance towards individuals with schizophrenia.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Social Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- The common misconception equates schizophrenia with a split personality.
- The impact of this specific belief on schizophrenia stigma is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between the split-personality belief and the stigmatization of schizophrenia.
- To determine if negative stereotypes mediate this relationship.
Main Methods:
- Online survey administered to 416 general population participants.
- Assessed split-personality belief, stereotypes (dangerousness, unpredictability/incompetence), and desired social distance related to schizophrenia.
Main Results:
- A significant association was found between the split-personality belief and increased perceived dangerousness, unpredictability/incompetence, and desired social distance.
- Stereotypes of dangerousness and unpredictability/incompetence mediated the link between the split-personality belief and social distance.
Conclusions:
- The belief that schizophrenia involves a split personality is linked to increased stigmatization.
- Addressing this misconception is crucial for reducing stigma and improving social inclusion for individuals with schizophrenia.
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