The public's view of the competence, dangerousness, and need for legal coercion of persons with mental health problems.
OBJECTIVE
The authors examined Americans' opinions about financial and treatment competence of people with mental health problems, potential for harm to self or others, and the use of legal means to force treatment.


METHODS
The 1996 General Social Survey provided interview data with a nationally representative sample (n = 1444). Respondents were given a vignette based on diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia, major depression, alcohol dependence, or drug dependence, or a "control" case.


RESULTS
The specific nature of the problem was the most important factor shaping public reaction. Respondents viewed those with "troubles," alcohol dependence, or depression as able to make treatment decisions. Most reported that persons with alcohol or drug problems or schizophrenia cannot manage money and are likely to be violent toward others. Respondents indicated a willingness to coerce individuals into treatment. Respondent and other case characteristics rarely affected opinions.


CONCLUSIONS
Americans report greater concern with individuals who have drug or alcohol problems than with persons who have other mental health problems. Evaluations of dangerousness and coercion indicate a continuing need for public education.
Pescosolido
B A
BA
Department of Sociology, Indiana University, Bloomington 47405, USA. pescosol@indiana.edu
Monahan
J
J
Link
B G
BG
Stueve
A
A
Kikuzawa
S
S
D001294:Attitude to Health; D003134:Commitment of Persons with Psychiatric Disorders / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D003617:Dangerous Behavior; D003625:Data Collection; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D016018:Least-Squares Analysis; D016015:Logistic Models; D008297:Male; D016743:Mental Competency / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000150:complications / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D028642:Persons with Psychiatric Disorders; D010358:Patient Participation / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000523:psychology; D011287:Prejudice; D011639:Public Opinion; D013240:Stereotyping; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000150:complications; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014481:United States