Perceived Knowledge and Attitudes Pertaining to ‘People with Mental Illness (PwMI)’: A Sri Lankan Perspective

Conceptions of mental illness are often decided by the socio-cultural background and other socio-demographic factors. The aim of the present study was to assess the perceived knowledge, attitudes and perceived behaviors pertaining to mental illness within the Sri Lankan public. In order to achieve this aim, 167 participants (Females = 97; Males = 70) from 17districts in Sri Lanka were given a survey questionnaire to assess their knowledge, attitudes and perceived practices towards PwMI. The results conveyed that in general participants had high to moderate knowledge, were open minded, displayed pro-integrated attitudes and high to moderate sensitivity towards PwMI. Results also conveyed that there is a positive relationship among knowledge, attitudes, and perceived behaviors towards PwMI.