Continuum Beliefs and Mental Illness Stigma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Correlation and Intervention Studies

Purpose Promulgating a continuum model of mental health and mental illness has been proposed as a way to reduce stigma by decreasing notions of differentness. This systematic review and meta-analysis examines whether continuum beliefs are associated with lower stigma, and whether continuum interventions reduce stigma.

Methods Systematic review and meta-analysis of both correlational and intervention studies examining the relation between continuum beliefs and mental illness stigma.

Results Following a pre-defined protocol (PROSPERO: CRD42019123606), we searched three electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science and PsycINFO) yielding 6726 studies. After screening, we included 33 studies covering continuum beliefs, mental illness, and stigma. Of these, 13 studies were included in meta-analysis. Continuum beliefs are consistently associated with lower stigma. Interventions were effective in manipulating continuum beliefs but differ in their effects on stigmatizing attitudes.

Conclusions We discuss whether and to what extent attitudes towards people with mental illness can be improved by providing information on a mental health-mental illness continuum. It appeared to be relevant whether interventions promoted a feeling of “us” and a process of identification with the person with mental illness. We discuss implications for the design of future interventions.

Publication History

Article published online:
02 September 2021