Background of the Study
Mental illness encompasses a range of mental health conditions that significantly impact individuals’ emotional, cognitive, and social functioning. Despite advances in mental health education and advocacy, societal stigma and misconceptions about mental illness persist, often influencing healthcare providers’ attitudes toward patients (Adebayo et al., 2023). Nursing students, as future healthcare professionals, play a pivotal role in shaping the perception and treatment of mental illness.
In Nigeria, cultural and societal norms often shape attitudes toward mental health, contributing to stigmatization and discriminatory practices (Ogunyemi et al., 2024). At Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, nursing students’ perceptions of mental illness may influence their future clinical practices and the quality of care they provide. This study examines these perceptions, aiming to inform curriculum development and interventions to foster positive attitudes toward mental health.
Statement of the Problem
Negative perceptions of mental illness among healthcare professionals, including nursing students, can adversely affect patient care and exacerbate stigma. While mental health education is included in nursing curricula, there is limited understanding of how nursing students perceive mental illness at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital.
The absence of empirical data on this subject hinders efforts to address potential biases and equip students with the knowledge and attitudes necessary for effective mental health care. This study seeks to evaluate nursing students’ perceptions of mental illness and identify factors that shape these attitudes, contributing to improved mental health education and patient outcomes.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess nursing students’ knowledge of mental illness at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital.
2. To evaluate their attitudes and perceptions toward individuals with mental illness.
3. To identify factors influencing nursing students’ perceptions of mental illness.
Research Questions
1. What is the level of knowledge about mental illness among nursing students at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital?
2. How do nursing students perceive individuals with mental illness?
3. What factors influence nursing students’ perceptions of mental illness?
Research Hypotheses
1. Nursing students at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital have varying levels of knowledge about mental illness.
2. Positive perceptions of mental illness among nursing students lead to improved attitudes toward patients.
3. Cultural and educational factors significantly influence nursing students’ perceptions of mental illness.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on nursing students at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital from 2023 to 2025. Data will be collected through surveys, focus group discussions, and assessments of educational materials. Limitations include potential biases in self-reported data and challenges in generalizing findings to other institutions.
Definitions of Terms
• Mental Illness: Disorders affecting mood, thinking, and behavior, such as depression, schizophrenia, and anxiety disorders.
• Perception: The way individuals interpret and understand a specific concept or phenomenon.
• Nursing Students: Individuals undergoing training in the field of nursing.
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