The Effect of a Thai Culturally-Based Mutual Support Program: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Persons with schizophrenia usually have severe psychotic symptoms, which create significant impairments in social relationships. The cultural specifics of different contexts influence decisions and actions of those with schizophrenia and should be carefully considered in nursing interventions. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of the Thai Culturally-based Mutual Support Program on social functioning of persons with schizophrenia. A randomized controlled trial was conducted from July to December 2013, with 60 adults with schizophrenia treated at one psychiatric hospital in southern Thailand, plus 60 family caregivers. Participants were randomly assigned to either the experimental or control group. The experimental group (n = 30) received the Thai culturally-based mutual support program in addition to usual care, whereas the control group (n = 30) received only usual care. Social functioning was measured using the Thai Personal and Social Performance Scale before receiving the program, and in week 1, 4, and 12. Results showed that mean scores on social functioning of participants in the experimental group at week 1, 4, and 12 were significantly higher than before receiving the program. In addition, the experimental group had a significantly higher mean score of social function than that of the control group at week 4, and 12. The results of this study suggested that the Thai culturally-based mutual support program can enhance the social functioning of persons with schizophrenia. Therefore, this program could be used as a nursing intervention for Thais with schizophrenia.