• Korean Journal of Social Welfare
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• v.56 no.2
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• pp.261-283
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• 2004

This study verified the effectiveness of brief family education programs for schizophrenic outpatients and their families in a community social welfare center, using a pre - post test control group design. The results of this study verified that the program was effective to improve knowledge about schizophrenia, reduce feelings of rejection and anxiety about patients, and help the patients to recognize their family emotional support. Therefore, it was found in this study that the brief family education program in the community social welfare center had a positive impact on schizophrenic outpatients and their families' treatment and rehabilitation. From the results of this study, it can be seen that this program positively effects the treatment and rehabilitation of schizophrenic patients and the stability of their families. The program can also be easily utilized as a community resource. Furthermore, the results of this study can be utilized as fundamental support to suggest the need for mental health programs in community social welfare centers. This study suggested the importance of increasing the number of mental health professionals working in this arena. There is also a need to create additional supportive programs for schizophrenic outpatients and their families. Follow up care also needs to be provided to families after completing family education programs. Continuous study is needed in these areas.