Evaluating the Effects of NAMI's Consumer Presentation Entitled In Our Own Voice

Abstract

Research suggests that misperceptions about the mentally ill and about their ability to recover and live productive lives are still commonly held by the public. Psychoeducation programs and direct contact can help both correct misperceptions and offer encouraging messages about recovery in those with and without mental illness. Consumer presentation programs, such as NAMI’s In Our Own Voice (IOOV), were designed in part for these purposes. This study examined archival IOOV audience evaluations (n = 599) from 2009 to better understand how audiences respond to IOOV in natural settings. Qualitative and quantitative analyses were conducted to examine: 1) viewers’ responses to the program, 2) differences between consumer and nonconsumer responses, and 3) whether the program satisfies program goals for audience members. Results indicate that the majority of viewers respond positively, in a variety of ways and to a variety of program elements not previously identified. Additionally, the program’s effects appear to generalize across consumers and nonconsumers equally well, with the exception that nonconsumers more frequently reported finding the program educational and consumers more frequently reported personally relating to presenters. Finally, results suggest that IOOV is indeed meeting its two stated program goals for audience members: educating the public and offering a hope-inspiring message of recovery. In conclusion, IOOV, as it is performed in the field, appears to be a valuable addition to educational and inspiring recovery-oriented programming available to the public.