Living With Stigma and Low Self-esteem Among Individuals With Burn Injuries: A Cross-sectional Study

Burn injuries are a significant global public health concern. The psychological problems deserve more attention. Research has shown that reducing the stigma and improving the burn patient's self-esteem are effective means to promote social reintegration. The aim of this study is to explore the relationship between stigma and self-esteem and to examine the independent factors that contribute to with the stigma of burns. The convenience sampling method was used in Guangzhou, China. A cross-sectional study was conducted using the Social Impact Scale, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, and a sociodemographic questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, statistical inference, correlation testing, and regression analysis were used to analyze the data among 146 burn survivors. The P-value was set as .05. The mean score of SIS was 57.03 ± 6.762. Of the four components of the Social Impact Scale, social rejection had the highest mean score (21.72 ± 3.00). The mean Self-Esteem Scale score was 21.05 ± 2.492, markedly different from the general population. A moderate positive correlation (r = .546, P < .001) was found between stigma and low self-esteem among burn victims. Multiple linear regression analysis identified residence, itching, and Self-Esteem Scale score as significant influencing factors, accounting for 38.5% of the total variance in stigma. Burn survivors reported moderate levels of stigma and low levels of self-esteem. Residence, itching, and Self-Esteem Scale score were significant influencing factors for stigma. To promote recovery of patients with burn injury, it is necessary to eliminate the stigma and improve their self-esteem.