Levels Of Stigma Research Articles

Investigating the Relationship Between Psychosocial Safety Climate and Mental Illness Stigma Among Emergency Medical Service Clinicians

Objectives To examine the relationship between psychosocial safety climate (PSC) and mental illness stigma among emergency medical service (EMS) clinicians. Despite the presence of mental health services at many EMS agencies, workers often do not seek treatment due to mental illness stigma. To facilitate treatment receipt and maintain a healthy workforce, we must understand factors contributing to stigma. Psychosocial safety climate refers to the degree to which workers perceive that their organization fosters a work environment focused on the protection of psychological health and safety. Despite its relevance, the relationship between PSC and mental illness stigma has yet to be examined. Methods Participants were recruited from EMS agencies in the Northeastern U.S. Census Region. We used an observational research design and multiple linear regression to investigate the relationship between overall levels of PSC using the Psychosocial Climate Scale (PSC-12) and mental illness stigma using the Endorsed and Anticipated Stigma Inventory - Workplace Stigma Subscale. We also examined separate facets of PSC to determine if one was more related to stigma. Using established guidelines and the Wilcoxon rank-sum test, we compared workers rating their agencies as having high-risk (≤37 points) or low-risk PSC levels (≥41 points). Results The sample was n = 124 EMS clinicians (Mage = 29.6, SDage = 9.2, 53.2% male). Most were White (88.7%) with some college/college degree (79.8%). After adjusting for age, gender, race, education, and mental health treatment receipt, clinicians reporting that their workplaces were less focused on psychosocial safety and health (i.e., lower overall levels of PSC) also reported elevated levels of stigma (b = −0.27, SE = 0.05, 95% CI = −0.37, −0.17, p < .001). Exploratory analyses indicated that no PSC facet was more related to stigma than another. Clinicians reporting high-risk levels displayed stigma levels that were 38% higher compared to clinicians reporting low-risk PSC levels. Conclusions Psychosocial safety climate is an important and modifiable intervention target linked to mental illness stigma in EMS clinicians. Organizational policies, practices, and procedures that convey that mental health is valued and should be protected may reduce stigma and facilitate treatment receipt among this high-risk population.

A Systematic Review of the Stigma Experienced by People with Autism Spectrum Disorder Associated with Intellectual Disabilities and by Their Family Caregivers.

The purpose of this paper was to explore the social stigma experienced by individuals diagnosed with ASD+ID, and to identify knowledge gaps for future studies by conducting a systematic review of peer-reviewed literature. In this systematic review, we included 12 studies exploring the experience of stigma among people with ASD+ID and/or their caregivers. Our aim was to better understand this experience, but also to explore the strategies used to cope with stigma in this population. Our results confirmed that people with ASD+ID and their caregivers experience at least low to moderate levels of stigma, and that this experience is modulated by internal and external factors (such as parental age, mindfulness traits, ASD symptoms…). In addition, our results show the impact of stigma on community integration, psychological well-being and help-seeking behaviour. The role of family, friends and professional support, as well as the formation of networks to share information, appear in our results to be protective factors against stigma. To our knowledge, this study is the first systematic review to examine the stigmatisation of people with ASD+ID and/or their caregivers. Further research is needed to understand the perspective of people with ASD+ID themselves and to explore other factors that modulate this experience, in particular gender and ethnicity.

The association between HIV-related stigma, HIV knowledge and HIV late presenters among people living with HIV (PLHIV) attending public primary care clinic settings in Selangor.

HIV late presenters were defined as individuals presenting with a CD4 count below 350 cells/μL or with an AIDS-defining event, according to the European Late Presenter Consensus working group. Early diagnosis and treatment of HIV have proven beneficial for people living with HIV (PLHIV), reducing the burden on healthcare systems, and contributing to ending the HIV/AIDS epidemic. However, in Malaysia, over 50% of newly diagnosed HIV patients present late, leading to increased morbidity and premature mortality. This study aims to determine the prevalence of late HIV presenters and its association with HIV-related stigma and HIV knowledge among PLHIV attending public primary care clinics in Selangor. A cross-sectional study was conducted at selected public health clinics in Selangor, involving PLHIV aged 18 years and older, who were diagnosed since 2019. HIV-related stigma was measured using the Malay version of Berger's HIV Stigma Scale, and HIV knowledge was assessed using the Malay version of Brief HIV-KQ-18. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with late HIV presentation. A total of 400 participants were included in the study, with 60.0% (n = 240, 95% CI: 55.0-65.0) classified as late presenters. The participants had a mean age of 30.29 (±7.77) years. The risk factors for late presenters were high levels of HIV-related stigma (aOR = 1.049, 95% CI: 1.034-1.063, p-value <0.001), low levels of HIV knowledge (aOR = 0.709, 95% CI: 0.646-0.778, p-value <0.001), tertiary education background (aOR = 15.962, 95% CI: 1.898-134.235, p-value = 0.011), and being single (aOR = 3.582, 95% CI: 1.393-9.208, p-value = 0.008). This study highlights the association between high levels of HIV-related stigma, low levels of HIV knowledge, and late HIV presentation. Interventions targeting stigma reduction and HIV education can promote early testing and prompt access to care, improving health outcomes for PLHIV.

Stigma of Binge-Eating Disorder in Hong Kong Chinese Adults: Effects of Weight Status, Diagnostic Labeling, and Etiological Explanations.

Binge-eating disorder (BED) is a strongly stigmatized condition and is often complicated by weight stigma. Research on the intersection between BED and weight stigma is scarce especially in Chinese populations. The present study examined BED stigma in Chinese, whether BED stigma was independent from weight stigma, and whether diagnostic labeling and etiological explanations influenced the degree of BED stigma. Using a between-subject experimental vignette study, 642 participants (mean age = 29.74 years, SD = 11.34) were randomly assigned to read one of the 18 vignettes, describing a character with information on BED symptoms, weight status, diagnostic labeling, and etiological explanations, followed by measures of stigma and help-seeking intentions. The character with BED symptoms was ascribed more negative personality characteristics, elicited more negative affective reactions, and triggered greater desired social distance compared to the character without BED symptoms. No evidence for weight stigma was found nor for its interaction with BED stigma. The Cantonese diagnostic label of BED, kwong sik zing, was associated with lower levels of volitional stigma and greater help-seeking intentions than the diagnostic label of eating disorders, jam sik sat tiu, and the absence of labeling. The effect of etiological explanations was only significant in the univariate test, indicating that providing either a psychosocial or a biogenetic etiological explanation lessened the negative evaluations of personality characteristics. The present study provided first evidence for BED stigma in Chinese. BED stigma appeared to be attributable to the presence of disordered eating behavior rather than the BED diagnosis.

Stigma and related influencing factors in brain cancer patients: a cross-sectional study and parallel mediation analysis.

Patients with brain cancer and painful symptoms of the disease experience heavy pressure and negative inner experiences, leading to a sense of stigma. Therefore, this study assessed the level of stigma in patients with brain cancer and analyzed the risk factors for stigma to analyze the underlying relationships among depression, social support, low self-esteem, and stigma. Patients completed the Social Impact Scale, Self-rating Depression Scale, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, Herth Hope Index, Social Support Rating Scale, and Self-Perceived Burden Scale. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to identify factors independently associated with stigma. Parallel mediation analysis was used to evaluate the mediating role of the relationship between psychoemotional factors and stigma. A multivariate linear regression analysis demonstrated significant associations between age (β = - 0.189, P = 0.002), treatment (β = 0.184, P = 0.003), self-esteem (β = - 0.128, P = 0.046), depression (β = 0.273, P < 0.001), hope (β = - 0.217, P = 0.003), and self-perceived burden (β = 0.260, P < 0.001) with brain cancer. It was observed that the social support received by brain cancer patients directly impacted their stigma (total effect, - 0.851, P = 0.001). Additionally, this relationship was influenced by depression and self-esteem through two distinct pathways. Increased stigma among brain cancer patients was found to be associated with severe depression, feelings of inferiority, diminished hope, and a heavy perceived burden. The structural equation modeling (SEM) revealed that social support negatively influenced stigma through depression and self-esteem. It is imperative to grasp patients' inner needs, implement psychological interventions, and cultivate a cancer-friendly social environment to prevent stigmatization and discrimination based on their patient status.

Identifying the factors affecting financial toxicity status in patients with middle and advanced colorectal cancer: a cross-sectional study.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks as the second most prevalent type of cancer in China. The financial implications of treatment are a significant factor to be taken into account for patients diagnosed with middle and advanced stages of colorectal cancer (III-IV CRC). The research aims to explore current financial toxicity (FT) conditions and analyze factors that may influence it in patients with middle and advanced CRC. This is a cross-sectional survey. The participants of the study were individuals diagnosed with middle and advanced colorectal cancer who were admitted to the hospital between January and June 2023. The cross-sectional survey utilized a variety of instruments, including a general information questionnaire, a cancer patient report outcome economic toxicity scale, a medical coping style questionnaire, an Anderson symptom assessment scale, a disease shame scale, and a social support scale. Multiple linear regression analysis was employed to examine the factors influencing FT. A cohort of 264 patients diagnosed with stage III-IV CRC were included in the study. The majority of patients with intermediate and advanced CRC (87.1%, n = 230) reported experiencing substantial financial strain. Multivariate analysis revealed that factors influencing FT included low family monthly income, out-of-pocket expenses, unemployment, undergoing surgical treatment, the level of stigma, and the severity of symptoms (P < 0.001). Patients with stage III-IV cancer (CRC) demonstrate increased levels of financial toxicity (FT), a common occurrence in individuals with moderate to severe CRC. In patients with stage III-IV CRC, the presence of FT is correlated with various factors including family monthly income, medical payment methods, work status, surgical treatment, stigma levels, and symptom severity. These characteristics may serve as influencing factors for subsequent treatment decisions.

Stigma in maintenance hemodialysis patients: A cross-sectional study

This study aimed to explore stigma and its predictors among patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis. We utilized corresponding scales to measure both stigma and quality of life, and examining their correlations. Clinical and laboratory data were obtained through self-reported scales and medical records, screening for possible predictors associated with stigma. We recruited 115 patients in this study, with an average age of 52.14 &amp;plusmn; 11.84 years. The level of stigma indicated correlations with all modules of the SF-36 scale. Specifically, bodily pain, general health, vitality, social functioning, role-emotional, and mental health modules had significant relationships with stigma (P &lt; 0.05). Internalized stigma was significantly related to uremic pruritus and the duration of hemodialysis (P &lt; 0.05). Enacted stigma revealed a significant relationship with uremic pruritus, the Beck Depression Inventory score, and the Beck Anxiety Inventory score (P &lt; 0.05). Overall, stigma appears to exert negative impacts on the quality of life of patients undergoing incident hemodialysis. The occurrence of internalized stigma may be related to uremic pruritus and the duration of hemodialysis, while enacted stigma may be associated with uremic pruritus, depression, and anxiety.

Sexual Minority Women Report Higher Weight Stigma Levels Than Heterosexual Women in the National Weight Control Registry.

Little is known about weight stigma in sexual minority women, and even less is known about weight stigma in those who have attained substantial weight loss and maintenance. This study examined weight stigma experiences and internalization in sexual minority women from the National Weight Control Registry (NWCR) who had lost ≥30 pounds and maintained this weight loss for ≥1 year, and compared weight stigma levels between sexual minority women versus heterosexual women in the NWCR. NWCR participants completed an electronic survey. Women who identified as a sexual minority (n = 64; 98% White; MBMI = 29 ± 8; Mage = 47 ± 13) and heterosexual women matched on body mass index (BMI), age, and race (n = 64; 98% White; MBMI = 28 ± 7; Mage = 51 ± 13) were included. Participants completed assessments of experienced and internalized weight stigma. Generalized linear models showed that a significantly larger proportion of sexual minority women in the NWCR reported experiencing weight stigma in the past year (24.2%) compared with heterosexual women (4.7%; p < .05). Furthermore, sexual minority (vs. heterosexual) women reported significantly higher levels of internalized weight stigma (p < .001), and a greater proportion of sexual minority women (35%) reported clinically significant internalized weight stigma relative to heterosexual women (2%; p < .001). Sexual minority women are at greater risk for experienced and internalized weight stigma than their heterosexual counterparts among women who have attained significant long-term weight loss. It is critical to expand research on weight stigma in sexual minority women.

Psychosocial health stigma related to COVID-19 disease among COVID-19 patients in Jordan: a comparative study

ObjectiveBeyond its effects on physical health, COVID-19 psychosocial stigma has emerged as a result of this global crisis, making people feel ashamed, alone and discriminated against. This comparative study aims...

"Just a knife wound this week, nothing too painful": An ethnographic exploration of how primary care patients experiencing homelessness view their own health and healthcare.

Community health needs assessments (CHNA) involving qualitative techniques help tailor health services to the specific needs of the population groups for whom they are designed. In light of increasing health disparities amongst people experiencing homelessness (PEH)-and to ensure the integration of their voices into a larger CHNA-this study used an ethnographic approach grounded in a social constructivist research paradigm to explore the perspectives of PEH attending a primary care and addiction service in Ireland on their priority health and healthcare needs. Participant observations and informal interviews were conducted with clients experiencing homelessness attending the service for three hours every Monday morning between October 2022 and April 2023. Field note data from active participant observation and informal conversations were collected, anonymised, and analysed using inductive thematic analysis in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki and the researchers' institutional Research Ethics Committee. Three main themes emerged from the analysis: self-identified priorities, satisfaction with health services, and migrant health. Clients' priority concerns relate to their mental health and personal safety, strengthening ties with children and families, finding a sense of purpose, and feeling better physically. These challenges differ from those of the general population in terms of their severity observed both prior to and during experiences of homelessness, coupled with disproportionately high levels of loss, fear, pain, fatigue, social stigma and other barriers to accessing satisfactory housing. In terms of services, clients are satisfied with their ability to access primary care and harm reduction in a social environment where positive exchanges with friends and providers take place. Conversely, barriers to accessing mental health and addiction services persist including the internalised belief that one is beyond help, lack of access to information on available services and their entry requirements, and lingering stigma within a health system that treats addiction as separate to health. Moving forward, health practitioners may consider holding more regular and open conversations with clients experiencing homelessness about the care they are receiving, its rationale, and whether or not changes are desired that can be safely made. The health needs of migrants and asylum seekers entering homelessness in Ireland are urgent and should be prioritised in future research.

Explaining inequity in knowledge, attitude, and services related to HIV/AIDS: a systematic review

BackgroundEquitable service provision and coverage are important responses to end the threat of the HIV/AIDS pandemic. Understanding inequity supports policies and programmes to deliver tailored interventions. There is continuous evidence generation on inequity in HIV/AIDS services. However, there was a lack of evidence on the global picture of inequity in behavioural and biomedical services related to HIV/AIDS. This systematic review assessed inequities in knowledge, attitude, HIV testing, and ART coverage across individual-level social groups and multiple (dis)advantage categories.MethodsThis review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guideline, with a PROSPERO registration number CRD42024521247. The risk of bias was assessed by using Hoy et al’s and Joanna Brigg’s quality appraisal checklists for cross-sectional quantitative and qualitative studies, respectively. The search date was from inception to the final database search date (May 29, 2023). The included articles were either quantitative or qualitative studies. We used mixed-methods approach to analyse the data from the review articles. Quantitative descriptive analysis was conducted to estimate frequency of articles published from different countries around the world. Qualitative content analysis of the findings from the original studies was conducted using the PROGRESS plus framework which stands for: place of residence, occupation or employment status, gender, religion, education status, socioeconomic status, and social capital.ResultsOut of 6,029 articles that were accessed and screened, only 72 articles met the inclusion criteria. More articles on HIV-related equity in knowledge, attitude, testing, and ART were published in developed countries than in developing countries. Individuals from higher-income households had better knowledge about HIV/AIDS. Unfavourable attitudes towards people living with HIV and HIV/AIDS-associated stigma were common among women. HIV/AIDS service coverage (HIV testing or ART coverage) was higher among richer and urban residents. HIV/AIDS-associated stigma and lower levels of knowledge about HIV/AIDS were observed among multiple disadvantageous groups due to the intersection of two or more identities.ConclusionsThe current review revealed that there have been disparities in HIV/AIDS services between social classes. Ending service disparity towards the global threat of HIV/AIDS demands tailored interventions based on socially disadvantaged groups (e.g., poor, rural dwellers, and women) and intersectional determinants. There is a need to understand the deep-rooted causes of inequity and the challenges that an equity-oriented system faces over time. More studies on inequity are needed, including intersectional inequity, which has been rarely studied in developing countries.

The peer mental health stigmatization scale-revised (PMHSS-R): Psychometric properties and cross-cultural factorial invariance in university students in Ireland and Argentina.

The study aimed to assess the psychometric quality of the Peer Mental Health Stigmatization Scale - Revised (PMHSS-R), by examining its factorial structure among young adults in Ireland and Argentina. A total of 429 participants aged between 18 and 25 years old were recruited (n = 187 Ireland, n = 242 Argentina). The PMHSS-R was completed by Irish participants and was translated, pilot-studied, and subsequently completed by Argentinian participants. A Confirmatory Factor Analysis demonstrated optimal factor loadings for an eight-item solution and acceptable internal consistency for both scale dimensions in the Argentinian sample. Satisfactory levels of partial scalar invariance were achieved between countries, indicating that the scale measures mental health stigma consistently across cultures. Our findings highlight the PMHSS-R as a cross-culturally valid and reliable psychometric instrument to evaluate interventions targeting stigma. In conclusion, the PMHSS-R can be used in cross-cultural research to compare levels of mental health stigma and investigate the interplay between stigma and other psychologically relevant constructs between different countries and cultural contexts.

Headache/migraine-related stigma, quality of life, disability, and most bothersome symptom in adults with current versus previous high-frequency headache/migraine and medication overuse: results of the Migraine Report Card survey

BackgroundHigh-frequency headache/migraine (HFM) and overuse of acute medication (medication overuse [MO]) are associated with increased disability and impact. Experiencing both HFM and MO can potentially compound impacts, including stigma; however, evidence of this is limited. The objective of this report was to evaluate self-reported stigma, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), disability, and migraine symptomology in US adults with HFM + MO from the Harris Poll Migraine Report Card survey.MethodsUS adults (≥ 18 yrs., no upper age limit) who screened positive for migraine per the ID Migraine™ screener completed an online survey. Participants were classified into “current HFM + MO” (≥ 8 days/month with headache/migraine and ≥ 10 days/month of acute medication use over last few months) or “previous HFM + MO” (previously experienced HFM + MO, headaches now occur ≤ 7 days/month with ≤ 9 days/month of acute medication use). Stigma, HRQoL, disability, and most bothersome symptom (MBS) were captured. The validated 8-item Stigma Scale for Chronic Illnesses (SSCI-8) assessed internal and external stigma (scores ≥ 60 are clinically significant). Raw data were weighted to the US adult population. Statistically significant differences were determined by a standard t-test of column proportions and means at the 90% (p < 0.1) and 95% (p < 0.05) confidence levels.ResultsParticipants (N = 550) were categorized as having current (n = 440; mean age 41.1 years; 54% female; 57% White, not Hispanic; 24% Hispanic; 11% Black, not Hispanic) or previous (n = 110; mean age 47.2 years; 49% female; 75% White, not Hispanic; 13% Hispanic; 4% Black, not Hispanic) HFM + MO. Compared to those with previous HFM + MO (21%), adults with current HFM + MO were more likely to experience clinically significant levels of stigma (47%). Men with current HFM + MO (52% compared to men with previous HFM + MO [25%] and women with current [41%] or previous [18%] HFM + MO), non-Hispanic Black (51% compared to White, not Hispanic [45%] and Hispanic [48%] current HFM + MO groups and White, not Hispanic previous HFM + MO [12%]), current HFM + MO aged 18–49 years (50% compared to those with current HFM + MO aged ≥ 50 years [33%] and those with previous HFM + MO aged 18–49 [34%] and ≥ 50 years [4%]), and employed respondents (53% current and 29% previous compared to those not employed [32% current and 12% previous]) reported higher rates of clinically significant stigma. Those with current HFM + MO were more likely to have worse HRQoL and disability due to headache/migraine. Respondents aged ≥ 50 years with current HFM + MO were more likely than respondents aged 18–49 years with current HFM + MO to indicate that their overall quality of life (66% vs. 52%) and their ability to participate in hobbies/activities they enjoy were negatively impacted by headache/migraine (61% vs. 49%). Pain-related symptoms were identified as the MBS.ConclusionsTogether these data suggest that current and previous HFM + MO can be associated with undesirable outcomes, including stigma and reduced HRQoL, which were greatest among people with current HFM + MO, but still considerable for people with previous HFM + MO.Graphical abstract

P-484 Infertility stigma, openness with others, and their relationship to depression and meaning in life among men and women experiencing infertility

Abstract Study question Does infertility-related stigma and being open with others relate to depression and meaning in life among men and women experiencing infertility? Summary answer Higher infertility stigma was related to higher depression and search for meaning, whereas higher openness was related to lower depression and higher presence of meaning. What is known already For men experiencing infertility, there is relatively scarce knowledge about the relationship between infertility stigma, openness, depression, and meaning in life. For women, previous studies have found that higher levels of infertility stigma are associated with higher levels of hopelessness (Kaya &amp; Oskay, 2020). Studies have also found that the presence of meaning in women is associated with the use of more adaptive coping strategies for infertility, while the search for meaning is associated with higher levels of depression (Morse &amp; Steger, 2019). Men who reported greater openness with others about infertility, reported lower depression (Babore, et al., 2017). Study design, size, duration The design was a cross-sectional survey where participants completed demographic and infertility information along with validated measures of meaning in life, depression, openness, and perceptions of stigma regarding their infertility. Participants were recruited via announcements on infertility discussion listservs and social media accounts in the United States. Data were collected in November-December of 2023. Participants were 89 men and 458 women who reported an infertility diagnosis. Eighty-one percent of participants were from the United States. Participants/materials, setting, methods The key outcome variables were the 10-item Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression measure (Zhang et al., 2012) and the Meaning in Life measure, which consists of two 5-item subscales, Presence of Meaning and Search for Meaning (Steger et al., 2006). Along with demographic and infertility factors, key psychological variables were measured including infertility stigma (Fu et al., 2015) and openness with others and their partner about their infertility experience (Babore, 2017). Participants mean age was 33. Main results and the role of chance Multiple linear hierarchical regression models explained substantial variance (adjusted R-squared) for depression (48% men; 29% women), presence of meaning (28% men; 27% women), and search for meaning (22% men; 16% women). Men and women who reported higher levels of personal infertility stigma had higher levels of depression (Betas = .23 men and .24 women; ps &amp;lt; .05), as well as higher levels of searching for meaning (Beta = .26 men, p = .051; Beta = .16 women, p = .016). Higher stigma was also associated with lower presence of meaning in women (Beta = -.233, ps &amp;lt;.001). Men and women who reported higher levels of openness with others about infertility reported substantially lower levels of depression (Betas = -.51 men and -.32 women; ps &amp;lt;.001), and greater presence of meaning in life (Betas = .29 men and .22 women; ps &amp;lt; .05). Openness with others was also associated with lower search for meaning among women (Beta = -.127, p = .011). Women who were currently in treatment reported more depression compared to both women who were never in treatment (Beta = -.245, p = .019), and women who had previously been in treatment (Beta = -.244, p = .031). Limitations, reasons for caution This study provided the rare opportunity to examine infertility and mental health among men, but caution is necessary when interpreting these results due to the relatively small sample size. The correlational findings do not allow for inferences of causality, and testing the generalizability of findings is an important next step. Wider implications of the findings The study highlights that higher infertility stigma and lower openness with others are key factors in understanding men and women’s mental health and worldview perceptions. Encouraging individuals with infertility to share their experiences with others may reduce feelings of depression, while also increasing one’s sense of meaning in life. Trial registration number not applicable

Stigma and its associations with self-confidence and sexual relations in 4 types of premature ejaculation

BackgroundAlthough men with premature ejaculation (PE) always show more negative emotions, including embarrassment, guilt and worry, this may be related to the stigma of PE. To investigated stigma and its associations with self-confidence and sexual relations in 4 PE syndromes, a survey was conducted in our hospital from December 2018 to December 2019 among 350 men with self-reported PE and 252 men without self-reported PE. The stigma, self-confidence and sexual relations were assessed by the Social Impact Scale (SIS) and Self-Esteem and Relationship questionnaire (SEAR), respectively. Ejaculation control, sexual life satisfaction and distress caused by PE were evaluated by the Index of PE.ResultsMen with self-reported PE had higher internalized shame and social isolation scores and lower SEAR scores than control subjects. The highest score of internalized shame and social isolation and the lowest score of SEAR appeared in men with lifelong PE (LPE). After age adjustment, the positive relationships were stronger between distress about PE and internalized shame. Whereas, the stronger negative associations were found between social isolation and sexual satisfaction. The strongest association was observed between social isolation and sexual relationship. Therefore, the stigma associated with PE adversely affects the self-confidence, self-esteem, and sexual relationships of men with PE.ConclusionMen with PE, especially LPE, have a high level of stigma and disharmonious sexual relations, and often lack self-confidence and self-esteem, which have a certain negative impact on their physical and mental health and life. These will be the key issues to be considered when we formulate a personalized treatment plan for PE.

Stigma and its Correlation in Patients with Schizophrenia

ABSTRACT The aim of the present study was to assess the stigma in patients with schizophrenia attending a tertiary referral government hospital. This was a cross-sectional research involving 60 schizophrenia patients at a government tertiary referral hospital. ICD-10 research diagnostic criteria were used for mental assessment. Statistics were analyzed using relevant tests. Of the 30 males, 21 (70%) experienced moderate stigma, two (6.67%) had mild stigma, and seven (23.33%) had severe stigma. The 30 females got 20 (66.67%) moderate ratings, one (3.33%) got a light grade, and nine (30%) had severe stigma grades associated with stigma disclosure. Twenty of 30 males (66.67%) reported moderate stigma, eight (26.67%) reported mild stigma, and two (6.66%) had severe stigma. With respect to positive stigma, 25 (83.33%) of 30 females exhibited moderate stigma. Also, four (13.33%) girls exhibited moderate stigma and one (3.33%) had severe stigma. Significant proportion of patients with schizophrenia experience stigma and stigma is associated with lower level of functioning. Better knowledge about illness is associated with a lower level of stigma.

STIGMA AND STIGMATIZATION IN A PEDAGOGICAL’S PROFESSIONAL WORK: SUBSTANTIVE AND INFORMATIVE ANALYSIS AND MODEL'S PRESENTATIONS

Background. The theory of stigma was popularized through research by sociologists M. Seeman and E. Goffman in the mid-1960s. The theoretical aspects of stigmatization presented in these works have made it possible to disseminate their results to different professions, including the teaching profession, and to construct a number of theoretical models of the processes of stigmatization of teachers. The component composition of such models is substantively based on theoretical studies carried out in the works of J.B. Pryor and G.D. Reeder. Research of this kind makes a significant contribution to stigma theory in terms of understanding that the processes of stigmatization of the educator’s personality can take different directions and how they are multidimensional; Societal perceptions of the teaching profession influence the level of stigmatization of the profession; acceptance of the stigma by the educator itself may result from an understanding of the social devaluation of the profession; Actors in a stigmatized pedagogical environment (such as family and friends) are at risk of social stigmatization; social institutions can perpetuate or exacerbate the stigmatized status of the teaching profession. Purpose. The article is aimed at presenting the theory of stigmatization of the teaching profession, as well as the development of an appropriate model and the analysis of its components, giving it qualitative certainty, reducing the risks of stigmatization and enhancing the value of the professional activity of the teachers Materials and methods. The practical and heuristic value of the study is that its findings broaden the existing understanding of the mechanisms of stigmatization and offer a productive tool for addressing the stigmatization of teaching professions in modern education, provide a vision of the key aspects to be further explored in this and related areas. The study used methods of comparative pedagogy, modeling method. Results. Based on the analysis of the scientific and methodical literature on the problem of stigmatization of individual professions, we proposed a model reflecting the basic concepts of the processes of stigmatization of the teaching profession in the field of education. The model identified the following main components: social stigma, self-stigma, associative stigma, structural stigma, primary and secondary personality relationships of the educator and learner. Social stigma is a key component of stigmatizing the teaching profession and underpins the subsequent components we have identified in this model. They also summarized the materials and highlighted the provisions that should be included in the theory describing the processes of stigmatization in education. This contributes to reducing the influence of the stigma formed in relation to the educational process or the profession of the teacher, and can have a positive influence on the status of the teacher, his professional identity and relationship with the students.

Prevalence, Perception and Awareness of Chronic Diseases (HIV, Diabetes, Hypertension and Typhoid Fever) Among Rural Dwellers in Nomeh-Unateze Community in Nkanu-East LGA of Enugu

Introduction: This study investigated the prevalence, perception, and awareness of chronic diseases—HIV, Diabetes, Hypertension, and Typhoid Fever—among rural dwellers in Nomeh-Unateze Community, located in Nkanu-East Local Government Area of Enugu. Methodology: A total of 200 participants were evaluated for this study. The mean age (standard deviation) of the participants was 48.9years (12.25) and 47% of the participants were within the age range of 55 and above. 83% of the participants were females while 17% were males. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, data was collected through structured questionnaires, in-depth interviews and tests for these chronic diseases. Results: Out of the study participants, only 4% had tertiary education, 17% started secondary school, 49% had basic education and 30% had no formal education. There was a high level of awareness of the chronic diseases, HIV, Diabetes Mellitus, Hypertension and Typhoid fever; however, the high rate of low level education had a huge impact on their perception about them. A significant gap in the sources of information about these chronic diseases was also found. Only 15% of participants reported receiving information from healthcare personnel, while 30% relied on media sources, predominantly radio. Misconceptions about disease causation and prevention were also prevalent, particularly regarding HIV as a high level of stigma surrounding HIV was also observed. The findings from this study revealed that the prevalence rates of these chronic diseases are notably low among the study participants, with HIV having a prevalence of 0.0% among the study participants. Diabetes had a1.15% prevalence among the study participants and the only identified incidences were recorded in females within the age range of 35-44. Typhoid had a prevalence of 1.05% among the participants, and the only incidences were recorded in males. However, Hypertension had the highest prevalence; 32.5% for hypertensive SBP (outside the safe range of 100-140mmHg) and 27.5% for hypertensive Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP) (outside the safe range of 60-90mmHg). All cases of hypertension were recorded in participants above 45years of age. This study underscores the urgent need for targeted health education interventions and improved access to healthcare services to enhance disease management and reduce the burden of chronic diseases in rural communities. Conclusion: Therefore, the study recommend that more research-oriented medical outreaches should be organized to both evaluate the level of stigmatization and fear associated with these chronic diseases and aim at drastically reducing them. Future researches should involve longitudinal studies that will check for the changes in the trends of the prevalence rates of these diseases over time, as well as their mortality rates. The community.

Estigma de peso y su asociación con el estado nutricional en estudiantes de carreras de salud en una universidad privada en la región de Ñuble, Chile

Introduction: Obesity and overweight constitute global public health challenges, negatively impacting more than one billion people. They are accompanied by significant psychological and social consequences, including the stigma associated with weight, with severe repercussions on mental and physical well-being. Health professionals are directly involved with this problem; however, few studies address weight stigma in Chile. Objective: To relate nutritional status (BMI) and the level of weight stigma in university students of health careers in the region of Ñuble, Chile. Methodology: Observational design of correlational and cross-sectional scope. The GAMS-27 scale was applied to assess weight stigma and BMI to evaluate the nutritional status of 156 students of health careers. Chi2 tests of independence and binary logistic regression were applied to evaluate the association between the variables, with the R statistical package version 4.3.0. Results: A statistically significant association was found between weight stigma and nutritional status (p=0.0145). Presenting normal BMI (p=0.0163) and being female (p=0.0156) were associated with a higher probability of presenting weight bias. Conclusions: The present study identified a statistically significant association between weight stigma and nutritional status in college students. It is vital to promote education regarding weight stigma in college students to avoid bias and improve respect for future users.

Empowering Women by Strengthening the Economic Sector and Digital Marketing Through a Women's School in Tambakmenjangan Village

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on various sectors, including tourism, trade and industry, particularly impacting micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Indonesia. According to Adistianingsih and Panjaitan (2022), Indonesia ranks 109th out of 144 countries in terms of women's participation in the economy and entrepreneurial opportunities. This reflects the limited opportunities for women in the world of work and entrepreneurship in Indonesia. Patriarchal culture and negative stigma surrounding the role of women in rural areas exacerbate this problem. This program aims to overcome the low economic participation of women in Tambakmenjangan Village, Lamongan Regency. The problem is the low level of women's empowerment, which has an impact on low levels of education, societal stigma and early marriage. This program utilizes non-formal education and skills training programs for women which are carried out in collaboration with the Lamongan Islamic University student organization. The activity design includes a six-month culinary, fashion and make-up training program for women in Tambakmenjangan Village. The findings show that this program has succeeded in empowering women by increasing their skills and knowledge in various fields. The program also involves partnerships with government agencies, local businesses, and educational institutions. Monitoring and evaluation were carried out to ensure program effectiveness, and workshops were held to disseminate and publicize the results. The implications of this research are very significant because they contribute to the empowerment of women in rural areas and address the gender gap in economic participation.