Abstract
ObjectiveTo identify the constituent elements of the stigma from the perspective of those having first-hand experiences of it.MethodsSubjective experiences of stigma were explored in six focus groups: three with people suffering from schizophrenia and three with patients' relatives. Focus group sessions were tape-recorded, transcribed and analyzed by means of an inductive method, forming categories from the texts, as a basis for coding. Analysis aimed at establishing a typology of stigmatization experiences from the spoken words of the focus group participants.ResultsFour dimensions of stigma were identified: access to social roles; internalization of stigma; quality of mental health services, public image of mental illness.ConclusionThe most frequently found topics concerned experiences of marginalization and discrimination that people with schizophrenia experience in their daily life. These results mirror the findings of similar studies obtained in other cultural contexts.
Highlights
The living conditions of people with schizophrenia do depend on the severity of the illness, and on the level of their acceptance in the community
The stigma is conferred upon relatives, close friends and all those who come into close contact with the mentally ill, including mental health professionals [8]
Participants and data collection Stigma experiences were explored in six focus groups: three with patients and three with their relatives
Summary
The living conditions of people with schizophrenia do depend on the severity of the illness, and on the level of their acceptance in the community. The stigma is conferred upon relatives, close friends and all those who come into close contact with the mentally ill, including mental health professionals [8]. Most previous studies sought to understand stigma by studying public attitudes and beliefs [9,10,11]. Based on these findings, efforts to combat stigma have primarily been focused on changing these stigmatizing attitudes (page number not for citation purposes)
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Clinical Practice and Epidemiology in Mental Health
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
