Predictors of Implicit and Explicit Internalized Stigma in a Sample With Different Mental Illness Diagnoses

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Clinical Psychology
• Social Psychology

Background:

• Internalized stigma is a significant barrier for individuals with mental illness.
• Understanding the nuances between implicit and explicit internalized stigma is crucial for effective interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate implicit and explicit internalized stigma in individuals with various mental illness diagnoses.
• To explore the relationship between internalized stigma and sociodemographic, clinical, and personal variables.

Main Methods:

• A sample of 160 individuals with distinct mental illness diagnoses participated.
• Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, mean differences, correlations, and stepwise regression models.

Main Results:

• Both implicit and explicit internalized stigma were prevalent, with variations based on sociodemographic factors.
• Explicit internalized stigma was predicted by symptomatology, environment, personality, illness references, and help-seeking time.
• Self-esteem was the sole predictor of implicit internalized stigma, explaining minimal variance.

Conclusions:

• Implicit and explicit internalized stigma differ significantly, requiring distinct intervention strategies.
• Interventions should target specific predictors for explicit stigma (e.g., symptom management, reducing illness-related references) and address self-esteem for implicit stigma.