Patterns of use, attitudes and expectations of mental health staff regarding computers

There is limited information on the views of mental health staff about computers. The present study aimed to ascertain the patterns of use, attitudes and expectations of staff from a comprehensive mental health service regarding computers before and after the purchase of new equipment and training. A questionnaire was sent to staff of the Central Sydney Mental Health Services working in sites targeted for new computer equipment and training. Most respondents, especially those with computer experience or who had worked in mental health for less than 5 years, viewed computers favourably. At the same time, half the respondents did not feel they had sufficient access to a computer at work and the vast majority had not received training as intended. Commitments to provide computer equipment and training must be followed through, otherwise staff may feel disenchanted and computers may be regarded less favourably. A measure of the positive views about computer use ('positivity index') developed during the course of the current study may have wider applicability.