Social Cognition and Sense of Belonging among Institutionalized Schizophrenic Patients

Abstract

Context: Schizophrenia is one of the perilous mental health problems. It hinders the patient's ability to think clearly, make life decisions, manage their emotions, and build healthy relationships.
Aim: This study aimed to explore the relationship between social cognition and a sense of belonging among institutionalized schizophrenic patients.

Methods: The study used a descriptive research design to achieve the aim of this study. This research was carried out in the inpatient unit of Minia Hospital for Mental Health and Addiction Treatment. A convenient sample of 100 institutionalized schizophrenic patients was recruited in the current study. This study's three tools include socio-demographic and medical data questionnaire, Observable Social Cognition Rating Scale, and Sense of Belonging scale.

Results: The main findings of this study revealed that more than three-fourths of schizophrenic patients had low levels of social cognition and a sense of belonging. There was a significant positive relationship between social cognition and the sense of belonging of institutionalized schizophrenic patients.
Conclusion: The current study concluded that institutionalized schizophrenic patients have a positive connection between their social cognition and a sense of belonging. Recommendations: The study recommended that schizophrenic patients in a very high need for a psycho-educational program for improving their cognitive abilities, which will improve their social cognition and interaction with others and enhance their sense of belonging.