BACKGROUND: Literature on how the general population stigmatizes individuals with mental disorders has increased considerably over the last decades. But the question remains if psychiatrists also stigmatize their patients. OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed to assess Brazilian psychiatrists' attitude towards individuals with schizophrenia. METHODS: Out of the approximately 6,000 participants of the 2009 National Psychiatry Congress in Brazil, 1,414 psychiatrists agreed to undergo the survey. Face-to-face interviews were conducted using a questionnaire that assessed stigma in three dimensions: stereotypes, social distance and prejudice towards a person with schizophrenia. Their opinion on psychotropic drugs and tolerance of side-effects were also assessed. Socio-demographic and professional data were collected. RESULTS: Brazilian psychiatrists tend to negatively stereotype individuals with schizophrenia. More negative stereotypes correlated with a positive opinion on psychotropic drugs and with a higher tolerance of side-effects. Higher age was correlated with positive stereotyping and with less prejudice. DISCUSSION: Psychiatrists stigmatize individuals with schizophrenia and possibly find it difficulty admit this fact. Anti-stigma campaigns among mental health professionals should be promoted.
Stigma; stereotypes; prejudice; social distance; schizophrenia; mental health professionals
