Representaciones sociales de enfermedad mental en psicólogos y psicólogas en ejercicio profesional en Ecuador.

Abstract

The motivation for the present study was the lack of information concerning the social representations of mental illness in Ecuador. The investigation consisted of describing the elements that make up the social representation of mental illness among practicing psychologists in Ecuador with the aim of identifying the attitudes, images and perceptions of mental illness held by the participants. A mixed methodology was used for data collection: quantitative surveys were applied to 87 professionals and qualitative, virtual focus groups were carried out with 9 professionals. The analysis of social representations showed that mental illness is associated with biopsychosocial concepts that require a multidisciplinary ambulatory intervention, and that, in acute moments, can require hospitalization. Analysis of the focus groups revealed a posture of doubt and incredulity regarding the concept of mental illness, although some professionals put forth the biomedical model and its institutionalization as a resource for control. In conclusion, results showed coincidences and contradictions with regards to the social representation of mental illness. Some elements related to institutionalization contradict the central thesis of doubt and incredulity.