Does Quantitative Or Qualitative Data Lower Stigma Of Those Suffering From Schizophrenia?

Abstract

This study examines social tolerance and support for legal coercion for people suffering
from schizophrenia. Mental illness, defined as a biomedical illness, has decreased stigma
and support for legal coercion for other mental illnesses but has the inverse relationship
with schizophrenia (Phelan, Yang, Cruz-Rojas, 2006; Schnittker, 2008). This increase in
stigma may be linked to scientific quantitative data that places the illness in control of the
person. The study examines Eastern Illinois University students' (N=130) level of social
tolerance and support for legal coercion for people suffering from schizophrenia after
they have been exposed to qualitative data, quantitative data, or no data. The author
discusses results and a possible historical link to stigma.

Date of Award	2011
Original language	American English
Awarding Institution	Eastern Illinois University
Supervisor	Gloria Leitschuh (Supervisor)