Work on genes involved in predisposing an individual to mental illness has allowed Professor Schofield's research group to undertake a range of collaborative studies examining community and patient understanding and attitudes to modern issues surrounding genetics. This has included studies with Professors Mitchell and Wilhelm, Assoc Professor Bettina Meiser and PhD student Alex Wilde in which they have evaluated who wants to know their risk, and perhaps more importantly, why. They have examined attitudes to genetic testing in families with multiple cases of bipolar disorder as well as attitudes towards childbearing, causal attributions for bipolar disorder and psychological stress. Current studies are examining media reporting and public perceptions about the role of genes and mental illness, with a strong focus on the role of stigma and ways in which it can be addressed.
