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The representation of mental illness in Bermudian print media, 1991-2011
Emmert Roberts1, Rebekah Bourne, Shawnee Basden
1Academic Unit of Psychiatry, University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol BS8 2BN, United Kingdom. emmert.roberts@gmail.com
Objective:
Stigmatization of persons with mental illness may be perpetuated through media depictions. This study analyzed changes in the depiction of mental illness by Bermudian newspapers over 20 years.
Methods:
All articles about mental illness in Bermuda's newspapers in 1991, 2001, and 2011 (N=277) were coded for composition, language, consultations and quotations, and content.
Results:
A significant increase in mental health professional consultation was demonstrated. Articles with a negative overall tone constituted the largest percentage of all articles (40%) and of articles in 2001 (43%) and 2011 (42%). A significant difference was found in primary theme; between 1991 and 2011, articles with an education and information theme dropped from 40% to 18% and articles about violent crime increased from 12% to 18%.
Conclusions:
The results may necessitate action from the island's advocacy groups. The findings have implications for discussion with the national press.
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