ABSTRACT This ethnographic study explored the experiences of eighteen Shona speakers living with schizophrenia in Zimbabwe. Data were collected using semistructured interviews, observations and field notes. Almost three in four participants reported having a strong religious affiliation and believed mental illnesses are caused by spirits (zvirwere zvemweya) or witchcraft (zvirwere zvevaroyi). Cultural and religious beliefs influenced the perceived causes of schizophrenia, symptom explanations, and help-seeking behavior. Schizophrenia compounded social disadvantage, often leading to family disruption, isolation, homelessness, and wandering. Faith and religious belonging provided participants access to support and fostered hope, resilience, a sense of self-worth and greater quality of life.

中文翻译：

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津巴布韦精神分裂症的人种志研究：文化，信仰和宗教的作用

摘要这项人种学研究探讨了津巴布韦18位绍纳语精神分裂症患者的经历。使用半结构化访谈，观察和实地记录收集数据。大约四分之三的参与者报告说他们具有强烈的宗教信仰，并认为精神疾病是由精神（zvirwere zvemweya）或巫术（zvirwere zvevaroyi）引起的。文化和宗教信仰影响了精神分裂症的感知原因，症状解释和寻求帮助的行为。精神分裂症加剧了社会不利条件，常常导致家庭破裂，孤立，无家可归和流浪。信仰和宗教归属为参与者提供了获得支持的机会，并增强了希望，韧性，自我价值感和更高的生活质量。