Mediating Role of Family Caregivers Attitudes in the Relationship between Knowledge and Effective Healthcare-Seeking Behaviours: A Case of Parirenyatwa Mental Health Hospital

Michael Hamadziripi Marandure
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Michael Hamadziripi Marandure: Department of Psychology, Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals

International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, 2025, vol. 9, issue 4, 4642-4697

Abstract: Timely and effective healthcare-seeking behaviours (HSB) are essential for managing mental disorders with psychotic features. Family caregivers often play a pivotal role in facilitating access to care and supporting individuals before, during, and after hospitalization. Their decisions and actions significantly impact patient outcomes and overall quality of life. However, the link between caregivers’ knowledge, their attitudes toward psychosis, and their subsequent healthcare-seeking behaviours remains underexplored. The study aimed to investigate whether caregivers’ attitudes mediate the relationship between their knowledge of psychosis management and their HSB. A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted at Parirenyatwa Mental Health Hospital in Harare, Zimbabwe. Fifty conveniently selected family caregivers participated in the study by completing a validated self-administered Knowledge, Attitudes, and Healthcare-Seeking Behaviours (KAH) questionnaire. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27 and Hayes’ PROCESS Model 4 for mediation analysis. Results revealed a significant indirect effect of knowledge on HSB through attitudes. While the direct effect of knowledge on HSB was limited, the total effect including attitudes was substantially stronger, highlighting the mediating role of attitudes in shaping healthcare-seeking behaviours. These findings suggest that knowledge alone is not sufficient; positive attitudes are essential in translating knowledge into effective action. The study shows the importance of targeted educational interventions that not only enhance knowledge but also foster supportive attitudes among family caregivers. Such initiatives could improve timely access to mental healthcare and contribute to better health outcomes for individuals with psychotic disorders. Further research is recommended to explore additional mediating factors and to develop comprehensive strategies for strengthening HSB among caregivers

Date: 2025
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