Psychology Commons^™

Biologically Framed Schizophrenia As A Barrier To Belief In Free Will, Nicholas L. Ortiz

Cal Poly Humboldt theses and projects

Biologically framing mental illness has certain influences on social-psychological processes related to morality and retribution. The attribution of moral responsibility is thwarted when others believe a transgressor has biologically caused mental illness. Belief in free will works as a function for attributing moral responsibility, which represents an intimate, interdependent connection between both concepts. The current study tested whether or not telling participants a transgressor has biologically caused schizophrenia reduces the belief she is morally responsible, has free will, and reduces general belief in free will. Results found partial evidence to show biologically framing a transgressor’s schizophrenia can diminish belief in …