The Stigma of Schizophrenia: Differences in Cognitive, Affective, and Behavioral Responses between Nurses and Broader...

Schizophrenia is one of the most stigmatized mental disorder; yet, research on how it is perceived within the field of general nursing is limited. Since nurses play a crucial role in the care of individuals with schizophrenia, their attitudes toward this disorder can significantly impact treatment and well-being of those affected.

The present study examines the degree of schizophrenia-related stigmatization among nurses (n = 153) compared to individuals from the broader population (n = 314), across the three key elements of stigma: stereotypes, emotional responses, and the behavioral aspects such as cooperation and interaction intentions.

Data were collected using an online questionnaire.

Group differences were observed. Nursing professionals showed higher stigma toward perceived individuals living with schizophrenia than did members of the broader community. Specifically, nurses perceived them to be less competent and warmer but not more dangerous (stereotypes), felt less admiration, empathy, and warmer attitudes, and more anxiety toward them (negative affective responses), and reported lower intentions to engage in prosocial behavior and interact (hostile behavioral intentions). The results held the same when controlling for basic socio-demographic variables.

These findings highlight critical stigma-related differences between general nurses and the broader community, providing a novel comprehensive comparative examination across cognitive, emotional, and behavioral domains. This approach highlights key targets, such as emotional responses and prosocial intentions, that should be prioritized in future anti-stigma interventions within nursing.