Benefits and risks of psychotropic medication in the eyes of the general public: results of a survey in the Federal Republic of Germany

Abstract

In 1990, a survey of the population of the FRG, including the new states, was carried out to investigate the attitude of the general public toward psychotropic drugs. This showed that they are regarded with fare more suspicion than trust. Their use in the treatment of mental disorder was rejected twice as often as it was recommended. Those questioned submitted three main arguments against the use of psychotropics: (1) they can cause unwanted effects, in particular dependency; (2) their action is restricted, i.e., they only treat the symptoms and not the cause of the illness; (3) they are ineffective, having either no effect or effects of doubtful or temporary nature. The use of psychotropic agents was recommended, if at all, for the purpose of sedating the patients, providing relief from their problems, and lessening their symptoms.