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Stigma resistance in patients with schizophrenia
Ingrid Sibitz1, Annemarie Unger, Andreas Woppmann
1Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna,Vienna, Austria. ingrid.sibitz@meduniwien.ac.at
Schizophrenia Bulletin
|June 3, 2009
Summary
Stigma resistance (SR) is crucial for mental illness recovery. In schizophrenia patients, high SR correlates with better self-esteem, quality of life, and social support, aiding recovery.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Mental Health Research
Background:
- Stigma resistance (SR) is an individual's capacity to counteract mental illness stigma.
- SR plays a crucial role in combating stigma, yet its correlates in schizophrenia patients are understudied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore stigma resistance (SR) in patients diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder.
- To identify factors associated with SR in this patient population.
Main Methods:
- 157 participants completed the Internalized Stigma of Mental Illness (ISMI) Scale, including its SR subscale.
- Data collected included measures of perceived devaluation and discrimination, depression, self-esteem, empowerment, quality of life, and clinical/demographic variables.
Main Results:
- Two-thirds of patients exhibited high SR.
- SR positively correlated with self-esteem, empowerment, and quality of life, while negatively correlating with stigma measures and depression.
- Factors associated with higher SR included a robust social network, being single or married (vs. separated), and receiving outpatient treatment.
Conclusions:
- Stigma resistance (SR) is a novel and promising concept for mental health recovery.
- Developing stigma-resisting beliefs may enhance patients' hope for a fulfilling life and support their recovery from mental illness.
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