The study participants were introduced to a 90 minute exercise of “voice simulation” using audiotapes of distressing voices.  While listening to audiotapes simulating the hearing of distressing voices the participants were engaged in an individual mental status exam, a structured group activity, and cognitive testing. The 11-item Medical Condition Regard Scale (MCRS) was administered pre and post simulation to identify participant’s attitudes and health care related behaviors.  Participants then discussed their perceptions in a focus group.

Study results of changes in the MCRS scores demonstrate significant differences in the participant’s regard for patients with serious and persistent mental illness.  Focus group themes centered on having an increased ability to accurately understand the viewpoint and reasoning of those with a serious mental illness. Themes include: “Kind of Lost”, “Who Cares”, “Get Away”, “Worn Out”, “Feel Things Out”, and “Conscientious Caregiver”.  Participants describe the influence of this exercise and the change that occurs personally in their understanding of what it means to be ill and hear voices, impacting their emotional intelligence.