Knowledge and Misconceptions about Schizophrenia among Health Care Students and Hospital Staff

Abstract

Background: Schizophrenia is a chronic psychiatric disorder often surrounded by stigma and misconceptions, even among healthcare professionals. Limited knowledge and negative attitudes among healthcare trainees and staff may influence patient care and delay treatment.

Objectives:

1. To assess knowledge regarding schizophrenia among healthcare students and hospital staff.


2. To identify common misconceptions related to schizophrenia.


3. To compare knowledge levels among medical, dental, nursing students and paramedical staff.

Methods:
A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted in two medical colleges with associated hospitals, two nursing colleges, one dental college, and one private hospital. Participants included 300 respondents: 100 MBBS students/interns, 50 BDS students, 50 nursing students, and 100 paramedical staff (nurses and technicians). A structured questionnaire assessed knowledge and misconceptions regarding schizophrenia. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests.

Results:
Overall, 52.3% participants had moderate knowledge, 27.0% good knowledge, and 20.7% poor knowledge. Misconceptions such as schizophrenia being “split personality” or “caused by supernatural forces” were present in a significant proportion of participants. Medical students demonstrated the highest knowledge scores compared with paramedical staff.

Conclusion:
Although healthcare trainees showed moderate awareness of schizophrenia, misconceptions and stigmatizing beliefs persist. Targeted mental health education and anti-stigma training programs are needed for healthcare professionals.