An investigation of the relationship level of contact and personality traits have with prejudice against ex-patients of psychiatric hospitals

Objective: While stigma against the mentally ill is a much-researched topic it is far rarer for studies to look at prejudice specifically. Additionally, most stigma and prejudice studies focus on the mentally ill, the author could find none which focused solely on ex-patients of psychiatric hospitals. In this study the author aims to address a gap in the literature by investigating what relationships prior contact and personality has with prejudice against ex-patients of psychiatric hospitals. Methodology: 163 participants completed a 60-item survey which included a modified Level of Contact report, a modified Prejudice against People with Mental Illness scale and a mini-International Personality Item Pool scale. Results: Pearson’s correlation analysis revealed a significant negative relationship between level of contact and levels of prejudice towards ex-patients of psychiatric hospitals. Additionally, correlational analysis revealed a significant negative relationship between levels of prejudice and personality traits agreeableness and extraversion. Discussion: Results from the present study suggest that levels of prejudice against ex-patients of psychiatric hospitals have a significant relationship with level of contact and the personality traits agreeableness and extraversion. These results have particular significance for anti-stigma and anti-prejudice interventions and educational programs. It is recommended that future research focus on expanding our understand of the causal influences of prejudice. Keywords: prejudice, stigma, personality, level of contac