An empirical examination of the biogenetic approach in schizophrenia stigma reduction through an attribution lens

The biogenetic approach in mental health stigmatization reduction has received increased attention. Taking the perspective of Weiner's attribution theory, the biogenetic explanations can be helpful in reducing the perceptions of controllability of mental illnesses (e.g., schizophrenia). However, recent studies reveal that biogenetic explanations may increase social stigma and discrimination against people with schizophrenia.

The current research, using Weiner's attribution theory, empirically examined the effects of biogenetic beliefs on the desire for social distance via perceptions of controllability and stability of schizophrenia using a Chinese sample.

A cross-sectional study (n = 156) and an experiment (n = 124) were carried out. Participants were recruited from an urban city in China. In the experiment, participants were randomly assigned to receive a biogenetic/control lecture and filled out a survey.

Biogenetic beliefs had indirect effects on the desire for social distance via decreased perceived controllability and increased perceived stability, which resulted in little to no change on the desire for social distance.

The biogenetic approach could decrease the perceptions of controllability of schizophrenia which may reduce the desire for social distance; however, it could also increase the perceptions of stability which may increase the desire for social distance, especially among close others. Cautions are warranted when using and disseminating the biogenetic causes of schizophrenia amongin the general public.