'People don't understand': An investigation of stigma in schizophrenia using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA)

Abstract

Background: Recent investigations provide evidence of stigma against people with a diagnosis of mental illness. Aims: The purpose of this study was to provide an account of the life experiences of persons with schizophrenia. Focusing on the individuals' personal reports of events and situations, the issues of stigmatisation and discrimination were explored. Method: Six participants were interviewed using a semi-structured schedule focusing on the areas of personal history, understanding of schizophrenia, social and medical contextualisation, and reflection on impact. The research was conducted using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) (Smith, 1996, 1999). Results: Super-ordinate themes of judgement, comparison, and personal understanding of the (mental health) issue emerged. Stigma was evident both as public-stigma and as self-stigma. Conclusions: The ramifications of stigma and discrimination are enduring and potentially disabling. IPA is a constructive tool in exploring these issues. Declaration of Interest: None