Work

Explanatory models of illness in schizophrenia: Comparison of four ethnic groups

Year: 2004

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Explanatory models of illness may differ between ethnic groups and influence treatment satisfaction and compliance. AIMS: To compare explanatory models among people with schizophrenia from four cultural backgrounds and explore their relationship with clinical and psychological characteristics. METHOD: Explanatory models, insight, treatment compliance, health locus of control, quality of life, treatment satisfaction, therapeutic relationships and symptomatology were assessed in UK Whites and Bangladeshis, African-Caribbeans and West Africans. RESULTS: When biological and supernatural causes of illness were compared, Whites cited biological causes more frequently than the three non-White groups, who cited supernatural causes more frequently. When biological and social causes were compared, Whites cited biological causes more frequently than African-Caribbeans and Bangladeshis, who cited social causes more frequently. A biological explanatory model was related to enhanced treatment satisfaction and therapeutic relationships but not treatment compliance. CONCLUSIONS: Explanatory models of illness contribute to patient satisfaction with treatment and relationships with clinicians.

Source: The British Journal of Psychiatry

DOI: 10.1192/bjp.185.1.25

Authors: Rosemarie McCabe, Stefan Priebe

Institution: Queen Mary University of London

Language: English

Topic: Schizophrenia research and treatment

Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: bronze

OpenAlex ID: W2152316698