Internalized stigma, emotional dysfunction and unusual experiences in young people at risk of psychosis

Pyle, M., Stewart, S. L.K., French, P., Byrne, R., Patterson, P., Gumley, A. , Birchwood, M. and Morrison, A. P. (2015) Internalized stigma, emotional dysfunction and unusual experiences in young people at risk of psychosis. Early Intervention in Psychiatry, 9(2), pp. 133-140. (doi: 10.1111/eip.12098) (PMID:25775264)

Abstract

Aims: To investigate the relationship between internalized stigma, depression, social anxiety and unusual experiences in young people considered to be at risk of developing psychosis.<p></p> Methods: A total of 288 participants meeting criteria for an at-risk mental state were recruited as part of a multisite randomized controlled trial of cognitive behavioural therapy for people meeting criteria for an at risk mental state (ARMS). The sample was assessed at baseline and 6 months using measures of at risk mental states, internalized stigma, depression and social anxiety.<p></p> Results: The Personal Beliefs about Experiences Questionnaire was validated for use with an ARMS sample. Correlational analyses at baseline indicated significant relationships between internalized stigma and: (i) depression; (ii) social anxiety; (iii) distress associated with unusual psychological experiences; and (iv) suicidal thinking. Regression analysis indicates negative appraisals of unusual experiences contributed significantly to depression scores at 6-month follow up when controlling for baseline depression and unusual psychological experiences.<p></p> Conclusions: These findings suggest that internalized stigma may contribute to the development and maintenance of depression in young people at risk of psychosis.<p></p>

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Gumley, Professor Andrew
• Authors: Pyle, M., Stewart, S. L.K., French, P., Byrne, R., Patterson, P., Gumley, A., Birchwood, M., and Morrison, A. P.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Mental Health and Wellbeing
• Journal Name: Early Intervention in Psychiatry
• Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell Publishing Asia
• ISSN: 1751-7885
• ISSN (Online): 1751-7893