Justification for the qualitative method
Schizophrenia has been a thorn in the flesh due to the stigma associated with the ailment. Large segments of society perceive the disease negatively. Several studies, which gave prominence to the sentiments of relatives and healthy citizens, have been a testament towards the accuracy of these facts. It is noteworthy, that a vast majority of studies, which were based on the same topic, often relied on quantitative data. The use of qualitative analysis is thus justified, since the amount of detail and quality of information required would only be provided using this method (Gonzalez-Torres, Oraa, Arıstegui, Fernandez-Rivas & Guimon, 2007).
In addition, exploring the actual situations experienced by patients and their relatives would be impracticable incase the study was reliant on statistics. Quantitative data lack the emotional aspect, which forms an essential part of the study. This is because statistics are often an embodiment of generalized opinions (Gonzalez-Torres, et al., 2007).
Lastly, stigma is often a consequence of several factors, including social, cultural, and educational distinctiveness, espoused by the societies where the respondents belong. As a result, a general summary of the findings does not represent the actual situation on the ground. This is also emphasized by the fact that actual responses vary in the different societies (Gonzalez-Torres, et al., 2007).
Data collection method used, appropriateness and justifications for the answer
For this study, the researchers used the focus groups method. It is a form of quality analysis. It is notable that the method was used extensively since the 1980s. The method is suitable for this study, since respondents form groups of six to twelve persons with common characteristics. After this, sessions running for several hours (mostly one or two) take place; in which people discuss issues that they relate to. Participants are then asked to voice their opinions on the highlighted arguments. It should be noted that added opinions are often of higher quality than those initially raised. This is because they raise new perspectives, in addition, to the supplementary information found therein (Gonzalez-Torres, et al., 2007).
Health Strategy proposal
My health policy will emphasize on acceptance and coexistence in all segments of society. Consequently, a proactive nature will be required from medical practitioners, more so mental health specialists. This will be extended to patients and their families hence eliminate tendencies of concealment and isolation that patients often resort to for protection.
Perpetrators of prejudice in different spheres of the patient’s life will be prosecuted accordingly. This will go a long way in eliminating segregation in social circles and healthcare establishments which patients encounter on several occasions. The best example of this instance is represented by a schizophrenic patient who was only taken seriously after diagnosis of kidney stones (Gonzalez-Torres, et al., 2007). Most importantly, discrimination in the workplace, which haunts friends and relatives of patients, will also reduce considerably.
The final strategy entails prioritizing awareness creation. Information on the signs and symptoms of the infection will be disseminated to the public. This will reduce cases of misunderstandings between patients and colleagues at the work place. Psychiatrists and other company health officials will establish better ways of dealing with these patients and handling the demands arising from their medical status.
Reference
Gonzalez-Torres, A., Oraa, R., Arıstegui, M., Fernandez-Rivas, A., Guimon, J., 2007.
Stigma and discrimination towards people with Schizophrenia and their family members. Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology, (42) 14–23.