Prof. NG Yat-nam, PetrusPetrusProf. NG Yat-namChiu, ReneeReneeChiuYoung, Kim-Wan DanielKim-Wan DanielYoungChen, Joseph Qi-rongJoseph Qi-rongChenCorrigan, PatrickPatrickCorrigan2025-02-142025-02-142025Research on Social Work Practice, 2025, vol. 36(1), pp. 59-72.1049-73151552-7581http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11861/10709Purpose: This study evaluates the efficacy of the expanded coming out proud (ECOP) group intervention in mitigating self-stigma among individuals with schizophrenia in Hong Kong. Methods: Eighty participants in recovery from mental illness were recruited and randomly assigned to the treatment and control group using a single-blind, multi-center randomized controlled trial. The treatment group underwent a 12-session ECOP intervention alongside their treatment as usual (TAU), while the control group received only TAU. Data were collected at pre-treatment, post-treatment, and at a 3-month follow-up. Results: The treatment group experienced significant reductions in self-stigma and notable improvements in self-empowerment and community empowerment, with medium to large effect sizes. These benefits persisted at the 3-month follow-up. Discussion: The findings suggest that the ECOP intervention is an effective method for reducing self-stigma and depression and enhancing empowerment among individuals with schizophrenia in Hong Kong. The study recommends further research and practice to focus on reducing self-stigma.enPeer Reviewed Journal Article10.1177/10497315241303696