De Las Cuevas C, Benadero O. Exploring the Relationship Between Psychological Constructs and Decision-Making Preferences in Psychiatric Outpatients. Patient Prefer Adherence. 2024 Aug 5;18:1629-1640. doi: 10.2147/PPA.S469579. PMID: 39131691; PMCID: PMC11313499.

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to elucidate the relationships among health locus of control, psychological reactance, attitudes toward psychiatric treatment, and patient decision-making preferences within a psychiatric outpatient population. Methods: A total of 200 consecutive psychiatric outpatients from a community mental health center in Tenerife, Spain, were approached for participation between September 2023 and March 2024. Of these, 151 patients consented to participate in this crosssectional study. Participants were selected based on their willingness to participate and were provided with informed consent forms. Data were collected using the Patient’s Health Belief Questionnaire on Psychiatric Treatment (PHBQPT) and the Control Preferences Scale (CPS). The PHBQPT evaluates health beliefs impacting adherence to psychiatric treatment, while the CPS assesses the preferred level of involvement in medical decision-making. Sociodemographic data were also collected to contextualize the findings. Results: Significant correlations were found between patients’ control preferences and their attitudes towards medication, compliance with psychiatric advice, and perceptions of treatment control. A collaborative control preference was notably associated with positive attitudes toward medication and trust in the psychiatrist. These findings suggest that tailored treatment approaches prioritizing patient involvement could enhance adherence and outcomes. Conclusion: The study underscores the importance of considering psychological constructs in psychiatric care to foster a holistic, patient-centered approach. Recognizing and integrating patients’ control preferences, attitudes towards medication, and psychological reactance can improve the therapeutic relationship and treatment adherence. Future research should explore longitudinal and interven tional studies to further understand the impact of aligning treatment approaches with patient preferences and psychological profiles. Plain Language Summary: In today’s fast-paced world, understanding how we can better cater to the needs of psychiatric patients is more important than ever. This study, conducted in Tenerife, Spain, with 151 participants, shines a light on the intricate relationship between a patient’s psychological mindset and their involvement in psychiatric care. Researchers explored how patients’ beliefs about health control, their resistance or openness to psychiatric advice, and their preferences in treatment decisions intertwine to affect their approach to psychiatric treatment. The core findings reveal a fascinating tapestry of patient attitudes and behaviors. For example, patients who prefer a joint approach with their psychiatrists toward managing their treatment tend to have a more positive outlook on medication and a deeper trust in their doctors. This suggests that when patients feel they are part of the decision-making process, they are more likely to follow through with treatment plans, leading to better outcomes. What does this mean in everyday terms? Essentially, the study highlights the power of listening and integrating patients’ viewpoints into their care plans. When patients see their insights and preferences reflected in their treatment, their engagement and adherence to medication improve. This not only fosters a more supportive environment for healing but also paves the way for more personalized, effective psychiatric care. In essence, this research is a call to action for healthcare providers to delve deeper into understanding each patient’s unique psychological makeup. By doing so, they can tailor treatments that resonate more closely with the patient’s own beliefs and preferences, ultimately leading to a more positive healthcare experience for everyone involved.