Development of an early psychosis public education program using the PRECEDE PROCEED model.

Early diagnosis and treatment are recognized strategies to reduce the long-term functional effects of chronic diseases, including psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. Treatment may be delayed if youth, young adults and parents are not aware of the early signs and symptoms of psychosis, the need for early diagnosis and treatment and where and how to get help. This article describes the use of the PRECEDE component of PRECEDE-PROCEED model as a conceptual framework in the development of an early psychosis public education program's objectives designed to meet the learning needs of the target population (youth and young adults ages 15-30 years and their parents). The PRECEDE framework provided a strong conceptual model in the program's planning.