ABSTRACT
The extent and consequences of social discrimination against people troubled by psychotic experiences are reviewed. They impact upon everyday life through effects upon neighborly interactions, upon friendships, more intimate relationships and childcare, employment, and access to healthcare. They are embedded in media portrayals and in certain institutional practices.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that these might be unintended consequences of paternalism and assumptions of limited capacity that are inherent in the sick role. Regarding mental health difficulties as ‘illnesses like any other’ may have untoward effects. There are variations in this practice and research that has exploited them appears to bear this out. How troubling psychotic experiences are understood and responded to by others is a key determinant of their consequences.
