Jordan Pernice, Verrazzano Class of 2025, completed major in Psychology
My research area was
inspired by a deep interest in understanding the correlation between mental
health and human relationships. As a psychology major, I’ve always been
fascinated by how mental health disorders affect interpersonal connections.
Schizophrenia stood out as particularly misunderstood, profoundly impacting to
those who have it. My motivation stemmed from a desire to bridge the gap
between clinical understanding and human empathy.
Initially, I thought the
capstone would be a straightforward academic exercise. In reality, it was much
more. It became a journey of discovery, pushing me to question stereotypes,
connect with the emotional narratives behind the data, and explore the societal
implications of stigma. It was intellectually challenging, but also deeply
personal. By the end, I felt like I had not just written a literature review,
but had also contributed to promoting understanding and compassion for those
impacted by schizophrenia.
I found that confronting the
depth of stigma and misinformation surrounding schizophrenia to be deeply
challenging. Sifting through dense research articles was tough, but even harder
was digesting the emotional toll the disorder takes on individuals and their
relationships. At times, the statistics and stories felt overwhelming. However,
what came naturally was my passion for the topic. I never doubted my commitment
to shedding light on this important issue.
What surprised me the most
was how interconnected everything was. This project proved that addressing mental
health is not just about discussing treatment, but also about promoting
societal change.
This research is only the
beginning. I’d love to explore interventions that improve relationship dynamics
for individuals with schizophrenia, particularly focusing on romantic
relationships, which are often overlooked. Expanding the study to include
personal narratives and interviews with individuals and their families could
provide richer, more human perspectives. Additionally, exploring cross-cultural
differences in how schizophrenia is perceived and managed could highlight areas
for global improvement in mental health care and societal support systems.
This experience has been
incredibly personal for me. My stepfather’s struggle with schizophrenia was my
first glimpse into how this disorder affects not only the individual but also
their loved ones. Witnessing his journey, the challenges he faced in
maintaining relationships, and the misconceptions he has endured gave me a
unique perspective and a deep empathy for those living with mental illness.
Through this research, I’ve
come to appreciate the resilience of individuals like my stepfather and their
families. I’m walking away with a renewed sense of purpose to advocate for
mental health awareness and a commitment to fostering understanding in both my
personal and professional life as I continue my journey in psychology.
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