Self-stigma and stages of change as predictors of treatment adherence of individuals with schizophrenia

The current study aimed at exploring the relationship between self-stigma, readiness for change and psychosocial treatment adherence among individuals with schizophrenia. Between March 2007 and January 2008, 105 adults with schizophrenia were recruited for this cross-sectional study. Face-to-face interviews were conducted to assess participants' level of self-stigma, readiness for change, insight, and general self-efficacy. The corresponding case therapists reported participants' level of treatment adherence, psychopathology, and global functioning. Findings of stepwise multiple regression suggested that individuals with higher global functioning, better readiness for action, and lower level of self-stigma demonstrated better treatment participation. Individuals with lesser severity of psychiatric symptoms and female participants had better treatment attendance. The results of discriminant function analysis showed the combined score of self-stigma, stages of change, and global functioning measures correctly classified 76.2% participants into adherent/nonadherent group membership. Suggestions for further studies and development of self-stigma reduction program to facilitate recovery and treatment adherence were made.