Community mental health professionals' theoretical assumptions about families: responses to a practice simulation vignette

Psychiatr Rehabil J. 2002 Summer;26(1):91-6. doi: 10.2975/26.2002.91.96.

Abstract

Seventy-three community mental health professionals read a practice simulation vignette about a man with increased schizophrenia symptoms who appears at a community mental health agency accompanied by his parents. Professionals reported their levels of agreement that the parent/s may play a role in the man's schizophrenia symptoms and/or mental health treatment, i.e., serving as treatment resources; expecting consultation from professionals; serving as partners and allies; expressing negative emotions; expressing double bind communication; engaging in hostile behavior per the schizophrenogenic mother; having marriage conflicts; and also having a psychiatric disability. Professionals reported their level of agreement that the parents may be experiencing responses to their son's schizophrenia such as coping; grieving; adjusting to a biological illness; dealing with caregiving responsibilities/burdens; and remaining strong, resilient people. Findings revealed that this sample of mental health professionals most strongly agreed that families are coping, grieving, and positive treatment resources.

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological
  • Attitude*
  • Community Mental Health Services*
  • Cost of Illness
  • Counseling
  • Family Health
  • Family*
  • Humans
  • Mental Disorders / psychology
  • Professional-Family Relations*
  • Social Work
  • Workforce