Graduation Date
Spring 2019
Document Type
Thesis
Program
Master of Arts degree with a major in Psychology, option Academic Research
Committee Chair Name
Christopher Aberson
Committee Chair Affiliation
HSU Faculty or Staff
Second Committee Member Name
Amber Gaffney
Second Committee Member Affiliation
HSU Faculty or Staff
Third Committee Member Name
Kauyumari Sanchez
Third Committee Member Affiliation
HSU Faculty or Staff
Subject Categories
Psychology
Abstract
Biologically framing mental illness has certain influences on social-psychological processes related to morality and retribution. The attribution of moral responsibility is thwarted when others believe a transgressor has biologically caused mental illness. Belief in free will works as a function for attributing moral responsibility, which represents an intimate, interdependent connection between both concepts. The current study tested whether or not telling participants a transgressor has biologically caused schizophrenia reduces the belief she is morally responsible, has free will, and reduces general belief in free will. Results found partial evidence to show biologically framing a transgressor’s schizophrenia can diminish belief in free will and moral responsibility. Implications of findings, limitations, and directions for future research are discussed.
Citation Style
Ortiz, N. L. (2019) Biologically framed schizophrenia as a barrier to belief in free will (Master's thesis).
Recommended Citation
Ortiz, Nicholas L., "Biologically framed schizophrenia as a barrier to belief in free will" (2019). Cal Poly Humboldt theses and projects. 271.
https://digitalcommons.humboldt.edu/etd/271