Stigmatization and dehumanization perceptions towards psychiatric patients among nurses: A path-analysis approach.

Area of Science:

• Mental Health Research
• Nursing Studies
• Social Psychology

Background:

• Stigma and dehumanization of individuals with mental illness can perpetuate disorders.
• Dehumanization is linked to abuse and neglect, necessitating evaluation among healthcare workers.
• Understanding nurses' perceptions is crucial for improving patient care and reducing negative outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare nurses' stigmatizing and dehumanizing perceptions of patients with psychiatric disorders versus non-psychiatric disorders.
• To investigate how the quality and frequency of social contact influence these perceptions.
• To identify key determinants of dehumanization in a nursing context.

Main Methods:

• A survey was distributed to nurses in French-speaking hospitals and associations.
• 336 nurses reported perceptions of patients with alcohol use disorder, schizophrenia, or cardiovascular disease.
• Evaluated were nurses' perceptions of patients (stigmatization, dehumanization) and their own well-being (burnout, depression, anxiety, stress).

Main Results:

• Nurses exhibited higher levels of stigmatization and dehumanization towards psychiatric patients compared to those with non-psychiatric disorders.
• Perceived dehumanization by superiors increased nurses' dehumanization of patients.
• Qualitative social contact with patients was associated with reduced dehumanization.

Conclusions:

• Stigmatization and dehumanization are prevalent among psychiatric nurses, indicating a need for improved practices.
• Interventions should focus on enhancing the quality of nurse-patient interactions.
• Addressing workplace dynamics, such as perceived dehumanization by superiors, is essential for reducing negative perceptions and improving patient care.