Myths in Schizophrenia

Abstract

Myths surrounding schizophrenia are just as abundant as other mental disorders, contributing to it being one of the most misunderstood (Curtis & Kelley, 2016). These myths can affect conceptualization of the disorder, creating ineffectual and/or harmful treatments, incorrect diagnoses and social stigma (Harding & Zahniser, 1994). Four myths were endorsed by respondents. 69.8% of respondents believed that schizophrenia is synonymous with Dissociative Identity Disorder and 54.1% believed that the voices schizophrenics hear when experiencing auditory hallucinations are their other personalities. 55.3% believed that individuals with schizophrenia are more likely to be a danger to others than to themselves. 65.9% believed that if a parent or relative has schizophrenia, then one is more genetically predisposed to develop it and will develop it sometime in their life. Movies or television shows and Internet or social media were rated as having the most influence on effecting contributing to public perceptions of myths schizophrenia.