Biogenetic explanations and emotional reactions to people with schizophrenia and major depressive disorder.

Using population-based data, the relationship between biogenetic causal beliefs and emotional reactions to persons with schizophrenia or depression was examined. Biogenetic attributions elicited either negative emotions alone or pro-social and negative emotions at the same time. Biogenetic attributions seem not helpful for improving emotional reactions to people with mental disorders.