Oct, 1, 2023

Vol.30 No.2, pp. 84-88

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  • Korean Journal of Biological Psychiatry
  • Volume 30(2); 2023
  • Article

Review

Korean Journal of Biological Psychiatry 2023;30(2):66-73. Published online: Oct, 1, 2023

Abstract PDF Full Text

DOI : https://doi.org/10.22857/kjbp.2023.30.2.004

A Survey of Knowledge and Attitudes Towards
Electroconvulsive Therapy in Psychiatrists

  • Suk Key Kang, MD,1 Jin Hyeok Jang, MD,2 Eunsoog An, MD, PhD,3 Nam Young Lee, MD, PhD,1 Se Hyun Kim, MD, PhD,4 Yong Sik Kim, MD, PhD,5 In Won Chung, MD, PhD3
    1 Department of Psychiatry, Dongguk University Ilsan Hospital, Goyang, Korea
    2 Seoulaloha Mental Health Clinic, Goyang, Korea
    3 Department of Psychiatry, Yong-In Mental Hospital, Yongin, Korea
    4 Department of Psychiatry, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
    5 Department of Psychiatry, Nowon Eulji Medical Center, Uijeongbu Eulji Medical Center, Eulji University, Seoul, Korea
Abstract

Objectives  This study explores knowledge of and attitudes toward electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) among psychiatrists in Korea.
Methods  We emailed questionnaires to psychiatrists to assess their knowledge of and attitudes toward ECT. The present analysis focuses on responses to Lutchman’s questionnaire.
Results  A total of 293 psychiatrists (260 specialists and 33 residents) responded to the questionnaire. The responses showed positive attitudes towards ECT, with an average approval rating of 77.68%. There were no differences between genders, or between specialists and residents, in knowledge of and attitudes toward ECT. However, psychiatrists generally reported insufficient knowledge and/or negative attitudes toward techniques, methods, side effects, and other factors related to clinical implementation of ECT, as well as a lack of clinical experience. In addition, responses were influenced by personal views.
Conclusions  We assume that insufficient knowledge, lack of experience with the advanced technologies and methods of modern ECT, and negative perceptions of side effects limit the use of ECT for treating mental disorders. Further research aimed at improving knowledge of and attitudes toward ECT among psychiatrists is needed to enhance therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of mental disorders.

Keywords Electroconvulsive therapy; Psychiatric specialists; Survey of knowledge and attitudes.