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An ethnographic study of schizophrenia in Zimbabwe: The role of culture, faith, and religion

journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-19, 21:56 authored by Sherphard Chidarikire, Dorothy Cross, Skinner, I, Cleary, M
This ethnographic study explored the experiences of eighteen Shona speakers living with schizophrenia in Zimbabwe. Data were collected using semistructured interviews, observations and field notes. Almost three in four participants reported having a strong religious affiliation and believed mental illnesses are caused by spirits (zvirwere zvemweya) or witchcraft (zvirwere zvevaroyi). Cultural and religious beliefs influenced the perceived causes of schizophrenia, symptom explanations, and help-seeking behavior. Schizophrenia compounded social disadvantage, often leading to family disruption, isolation, homelessness, and wandering. Faith and religious belonging provided participants access to support and fostered hope, resilience, a sense of self-worth and greater quality of life.

History

Publication title

Journal of Spirituality in Mental Health

Volume

22

Pagination

173-194

ISSN

1934-9637

Department/School

School of Nursing

Publisher

Routledge

Place of publication

United States

Rights statement

© 2018 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC

Repository Status

  • Restricted

Socio-economic Objectives

Mental health

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