Perceptions of schizophrenia in the Australian community: 2005-2017

Community perceptions of schizophrenia potentially influence the wellbeing and quality of life of individuals with the disorder. There is some evidence of improved community knowledge of schizophrenia in recent years; however, misconceptions still remain.

The aims were to investigate community perceptions of schizophrenia at two points in time.

Two cross-sectional surveys were used to assess perceptions of schizophrenia. Using personal contacts and a snowball approach, members of the Australian community were recruited in 2005 (n = 1214) and in 2017 (n = 985). Participants were asked "What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think about schizophrenia?"

Analyses revealed that community knowledge of schizophrenia was more accurate at the second time point and prosocial tendencies were more evident. Perceptions of dangerousness, aggressiveness and unpredictability did not differ at the two time points. Despite there being fewer responses that confused schizophrenia with dissociative identity disorder, this misconception was still evident.

Although community knowledge about schizophrenia appears to have become more accurate and empathic, the endurance of negative stereotypes and misunderstandings highlights the need for community education programmes to combat stigma and discrimination.