Chinese Lay Theory and Mental Illness Stigma: Implications for Research and Practices

摘要

This paper describes lay theories of mental illness in Chinese culture and its possible contribution to the stigma associated with persons with mental illness in that culture. These lay theories reflect to some degree, fundamental Chinese beliefs and values including: Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism, and folk religions. Specific stigmas related to the public, family, and self are presented. Implications for rehabilitation practices and research are discussed. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]