PSYCHOLOGICAL EXPLANATIONS OF SCHIZOPHRENIA Flashcards
(20 cards)
What does the Social Drift Theory propose about mental illness, specifically schizophrenia?
The theory suggests that being diagnosed with a mental illness can worsen the condition due to societal stigma and discrimination.
How does the label of mental illness affect an individual’s social status?
The label can lead to a downward shift in social class due to rejection from society, including employers and friends.
What are some consequences of being labeled with a mental illness like schizophrenia?
Individuals may experience a lack of support, job loss, and even homelessness, which can further deteriorate their mental health.
How does fear of discrimination impact individuals with schizophrenia?
Fear of discrimination may lead individuals to disengage from society, increasing their isolation and worsening their mental health.
What does the Social Drift Theory say about society’s role in mental illness?
It argues that society’s lack of awareness and understanding contributes to the social drift and isolation of individuals with mental illness.
How does the Social Drift Theory differ from the Social Causation Theory?
The Social Drift Theory states that mental illness occurs first and society contributes to its worsening, while the Social Causation Theory claims that low social class instigates mental illness.
What is a criticism of the Social Drift Theory?
It does not provide an explanation for the cause of schizophrenia; it only explains the effects of being diagnosed with the condition.
What impact does societal stigma have on individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia?
Societal stigma can lead to discrimination, resulting in social rejection and further mental health deterioration.
In what way can the Social Drift Theory help us understand the experience of individuals with schizophrenia?
It highlights how societal factors can exacerbate mental illness and contribute to a cycle of isolation and decline.
What role does social support play in the Social Drift Theory?
Lack of appropriate social support can worsen the condition, leading to job loss and increased isolation.
How can discrimination affect the mental health of individuals with schizophrenia?
Discrimination can lead to increased isolation, fear, and a lack of support, all of which can deteriorate mental health.
What might individuals with schizophrenia do in response to societal rejection?
They may choose to withdraw from social interactions and disengage from society.
According to the Social Drift Theory, what is the relationship between mental illness and social class?
The theory posits that mental illness can lead to a lower social class due to societal rejection, rather than low social class causing mental illness.
Why is the Social Drift Theory considered to focus on the effects of mental illness rather than its causes?
It emphasises the consequences of being labeled with a mental illness rather than explaining what initially causes the illness itself.
What is a potential consequence of the lack of societal understanding regarding mental illness?
A lack of understanding can perpetuate stigma and lead to further social drift for individuals with mental illness.
How does the Social Drift Theory explain the cycle of deterioration in mental health?
It suggests that as individuals face discrimination and isolation, their mental health worsens, leading to further withdrawal and social decline.
What does the Social Drift Theory imply about the importance of societal attitudes towards mental illness?
It implies that improving societal attitudes and understanding can help mitigate the negative effects of stigma and support mental health.
How might social support systems be important in combating the effects of the Social Drift Theory?
Effective social support can help individuals maintain their social connections and mitigate feelings of isolation and discrimination.
What role does employment play in the Social Drift Theory?
Employment can be negatively affected by discrimination, leading to financial instability and further isolation for individuals with schizophrenia.
How can awareness campaigns about mental illness impact the Social Drift Theory?
Awareness campaigns can reduce stigma, promote understanding, and potentially lessen the social drift experienced by individuals with mental illness.
