The effect of psychoeducation-based motivational interviewing on schizophrenia-related knowledge and hope among individuals with schizophrenia: A single-blind randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND

A lack of schizophrenia-related knowledge and low levels of hope among individuals with schizophrenia can negatively affect treatment adherence, personal recovery, and long-term clinical outcomes. Although psychoeducation and motivational interviewing have demonstrated positive effects in these areas, randomized controlled trials evaluating their combined effects on schizophrenia-related knowledge and hope remain limited.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to examine the effects of psychoeducation-based motivational interviewing on schizophrenia-related knowledge and hope in individuals with schizophrenia.

METHODS

This single-blind randomized controlled trial included 44 individuals with schizophrenia receiving care at a Community Mental Health Center in Turkey. Participants were randomly assigned to the intervention group (n = 21) and the control group (n = 23). The intervention group received a psychoeducation-based motivational interviewing program consisting of one preparatory session and five main sessions, whereas the control group received routine care. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using the Demographic Information Form, Schizophrenia Knowledge Scale, and Schizophrenia Hope Scale at three time points: baseline, post-intervention, and one-month follow-up. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA).

RESULTS

At baseline, no significant differences were observed between the groups in schizophrenia-related knowledge or hope (p > .05). Following the intervention, the experimental group demonstrated significant improvements in schizophrenia-related knowledge (F = 176.060, p < .001, η2 = 0.898) and hope (F = 99.782, p < .001, η2 = 0.833), and these improvements were maintained at the one-month follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Psychoeducation-based motivational interviewing is an effective psychiatric nursing intervention for improving schizophrenia-related knowledge and hope among individuals with schizophrenia. Integrating this person-centered, recovery-oriented approach into routine mental health services may enhance active participation in treatment and support personal recovery.