Lay Perceptions of Mental Disorder in Agricultural Greece: A Qualitative Approach

Abstract

This exploratory survey aimed to investigate and to explore, using the vignette methodology, community perceptions of mental disorder in a rural area in Greece. The influence of the nature of the problematic behaviour depicted in the vignettes, the gender of the vignette actor and the demographic characteristics of respondents were also examined.A series of vignettes in combination with an open‐ended response format were used. Fifty face‐to‐face interviews were carried out with residents in a rural community area in Crete. A thematic analysis was employed.It was found that the type of symptomatology influenced respondents' reactions. Social environmental factors, childhood experiences and personality characteristics were more likely to be offered as ætiological factors for depression, anxiety and schizophrenia with negative symptoms. In contrast, the positive symptoms of schizophrenia and paranoia were more likely to be attributed to biological factors. The respondents expressed a remarkably reserved attitude towards psychiatrists and use of psychotropic drugs. Psychological assistance and social support were more likely to be recommended as treatment methods. The gender of the vignette actor influenced respondents' reactions in relation to schizophrenia with positive symptoms and schizophrenia with negative symptoms. Respondents' gender and age were found to have no influence.Vignette methodology was proved to be a valuable tool to demonstrate the complexity of lay perceptions concerning mental disorder. Respondents clearly expressed a need for mental health education indicating future implications for interventions in this area.