Skizofreni - sygdomsforståelsers konsekvenser for individet

Abstract

This bachelor thesis examines the concept of stigmatization related to schizophrenia and its effects on the individual. It is explored how different understandings of schizophrenia can contribute to stigmatization. Based on theories of stigmatization, it is argued that the stigmatization that people with schizophrenia experience may result in a decrease of agency and possibilities of action. Thus, the aim of this paper is to investigate how the biological approach and the recovery approach to schizophrenia affects stigmatization towards the individual, the individual’s agency, courses of action and self-understanding. As no data is conducted to explore the issue of the thesis, the methods used in this paper are theoretical analysis and discussion.

The analysis shows how stigmatization can influence the individual with schizophrenia. Furthermore, it is analysed how the two approaches differ in their view on emergence and treatment of schizophrenia, the self and ontological conceptions. Based on the analysis, advantages and disadvantages of the two approaches are discussed with emphasis on their consequences for the individual with schizophrenia’s agency, possibilities of action and self- understanding. It is argued that the biological approach to schizophrenia may increase stigmatization and reduce agency and possibilities of action, while the recovery approach may reduce stigma and increase agency and possibilities of action. This finding leads to a discussion of the two approaches’ consequences in clinical practice and furthermore if it is possible to reduce stigmatization in society. The analysis and discussion are supported by empirical findings. However, the research on the topic is opposing.

It is concluded that the recovery approach is more beneficial for the individual with schizophrenia and should be included more in clinical practice. However, more research is needed on examining if the recovery approach can stand alone, or if it should be supplemented by another approach. The investigation is based on an eclectic process, with the purpose of combining several perspectives to create new insights about the consequences of different views on schizophrenia.

Bedømmelse: 12