Those with mental illnesses
have long had to face social rejection and isolation. The social stigma that
comes with having a mental illness has real consequences on the lives and
experiences of those trying to manage mental health conditions. This study
looked at people’s attitudes and perceptions about those with mental illnesses
in regard to dangerousness and potential violent behavior. The findings of this
study demonstrated that many people still hold negative attitudes and beliefs
about those with mental illnesses and that they are generally not that comfortable
being in relationships with them. Schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, drug
addiction, and personality disorders were among the most concerning to the participants.
Black and Asian respondents had the highest levels of concern and the strongest
feelings of potential dangerousness overall. In regard to gender, men felt that
those with bipolar disorder were more likely to be dangerous. Both men and
women generally felt that drug addiction (substance use disorder) was the most
problematic in regard to dangerousness and concerns about being in relationships
with these individuals. Schizophrenia was the mental illness most closely
associated to violent and unpredictable behaviors. The findings from this study
lend further evidence that those with mental illnesses are widely viewed in
negative ways and that they are often denied full social acceptance and participation.
Cite this paper
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