Continuum beliefs and mental illness stigma: a systematic review and meta-analysis of correlation and intervention studies.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Promulgating a continuum model of mental health and mental illness has been proposed as a way to reduce stigma by decreasing notions of differentness. This systematic review and meta-analysis examines whether continuum beliefs are associated with lower stigma, and whether continuum interventions reduce stigma.

Methods

Following a pre-defined protocol (PROSPERO: CRD42019123606), we searched three electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, and PsycINFO) yielding 6726 studies. After screening, we included 33 studies covering continuum beliefs, mental illness, and stigma. Of these, 13 studies were included in meta-analysis.

Results

Continuum beliefs are consistently associated with lower stigma. Interventions were effective at manipulating continuum beliefs

SUBMITTER: Peter LJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8108391 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature