Race and Schizophrenia Diagnoses in Four Types of Hospitals

Abstract

Overdiagnosis of schizophrenia is a mental health disparity that negatively affects Black clients in terms of increased risk of hospitalization and incorrect drug therapy. The present study investigated the extent of overdiagnosis in four different types of hospitals and client characteristics associated with this disparity. Data on 1,641 inpatient clients from a national survey were analyzed. Results revealed that in each type of hospital, Black clients were more likely than White clients to be diagnosed with schizophrenia rather than a mood disorder. After controlling for the influence of client clinical and demographic variables, client race was the most significant predictor of schizophrenia diagnoses in the hospitals collectively. These findings further document the need for initiatives to address this disparity.