SOCIAL SUPPORT SYSTEM AND FAMILY BURDEN DUE TO CHRONIC SCHIZOPHRENIA IN RURAL AND URBAN BACKGROUND

The present study discusses the possible relationship between the Family Burden as experienced by the family members of chronic schizophrenic patients and Social Support System as perceived by the patients and compares these two between rural and urban backgrounds. Thirty patients each from rural and urban areas were selected. Subjects were administered the Alan Vax et al (1986) Social Support Appraisal and Pai et al (1981) Interview Schedule for assessing Burden on the family of psychiatric patient. The rural and urban families were found to have experienced equal burden and also perceived equal Social Support System. The study finds no relationship between Family Burden and Social Support System. After discussion suggestions for future studies are offered.