Mc. Angermeyer et H. Matschinger, LAY BELIEFS ABOUT SCHIZOPHRENIC DISORDER - THE RESULTS OF A POPULATION SURVEY IN GERMANY, Acta psychiatrica Scandinavica, 89, 1994, pp. 39-45
According to Fishbein and Ajzen's theory of reasoned action, normative
expectations on the part of significant others influence the complian
ce of schizophrenic patients. These expectations in turn are determine
d for the most part by the beliefs prevailing in society regarding thi
s illness and the adequate treatment thereof. Results from a represent
ative study conducted in Germany after reunification in 1990 demonstra
te the disagreement on essential issues between lay beliefs and psychi
atric teaching. Compared with experts in psychiatry, the lay public at
taches great importance to current psychosocial influences for the aet
iology of schizophrenic disorder. It prefers psychological methods of
treatment, maintaining a reserved stance with regard to treatment with
psychotropic drugs. Negative consequences for compliance with the lat
ter on the part of the patients are to be expected as a result.