Effects of an empowerment program for community-dwelling people with mental illness in South Korea

Abstract

PURPOSE: This study aimed to examine the effects of an empowerment program on empowerment, quality of life, and recognition of human rights of people with mental illness residing in a community in South Korea. DESIGN AND METHODS: A repeated-measures design (before, immediately after, and 4 weeks after the intervention) with a control group was used. The experimental group received an eight-session empowerment program over 8 weeks. FINDINGS: The empowerment program significantly increased empowerment and quality of life, but not recognition of human rights. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Nursing interventions should be developed to enhance the recognition of human rights for people with mental illness.