Work

How Far Apart Are Depression and Schizophrenia? An Intergroup Relationship Independent of Perceived Risk and the Typicality of Each Disorder / ¿Qué distancia hay entre la depresión y la esquizofrenia? Una relación intergrupal independiente del riesgo percibido y la tipicidad de cada trastorno

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Mental illness (MI) is often associated with negative stereotypes that shape intergroup relations. This study examines two key intergroup features—perceived social distance and perceived boundary permeability—between mental health (MH), depression, and schizophrenia, and tests whether these perceptions are influenced by perceived susceptibility to and typicality of each disorder. Across two studies, psychology undergraduates evaluated perceived social distance and frontiers permeability between MH and two mental disorders (depression or schizophrenia). Perceived susceptibility to developing a mental disorder was assessed in both studies, and perceived typicality was additionally measured in Study 2. Depression was perceived as less distant and as having more permeable frontiers from MH than schizophrenia. These differences were largely independent of perceived susceptibility and typicality of the disorder. These findings provide novel insights into how individuals cognitively structure intergroup frontiers related to MI, which may inform efforts to reduce stigma and promote social inclusion.

Source: International Journal of Social Psychology Revista de Psicología Social

DOI: 10.1177/02134748261472783

Authors: Diogo C. da Silva, Ana C. Martins, Teresa Garcia-Marques

Institution: ISPA - Instituto Universitário

Language: English

Topic: Mental Health Treatment and Access

Subfield: Social Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,650