Qualitative Study on the Marital Needs of Couples with a Spouse Living with Schizophrenia in India

Objectives: To assess the marital needs of couples with a spouse living with Schizophrenia (SLWS) in India Methods: Seven spouses and four persons living with Schizophrenia (N=11) participated in in-depth interviews where the marital needs were discussed. The interviews were recorded, transcribed and eleven marital needs were emerged. Results: The needs that emerged were: Poor knowledge about schizophrenia, Partner violence towards wives, Emotional disturbances, Inadequate role functioning, Burdened spouses, Impact on children, Sexual problems, Poor social life, Legal complications, Stigma from spouses, Poor communication. Conclusion: The marital needs were important in the context of schizophrenia.