Stigma Scale Adaptation and Validation for Measuring COVID-19 Stigma

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated psychosocial issues, including depression, anxiety, stress, and stigma.
• Existing stigma instruments are often condition-specific, necessitating adaptation for broader application.
• This study aimed to evaluate stigma, stress, anxiety, and depression in the Indian population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To measure stigma, stress, anxiety, and depression using a modified HIV Stigma Scale for COVID-19.
• To validate the COVID-19 Stigma Scale-Modified (CSS-M) for use in the Indian population.
• To assess the psychometric properties of the CSS-M.

Main Methods:

• A weblink-based online survey was administered to 375 participants.
• The survey included the adapted CSS-M and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21.
• Data were analyzed using correlation, reliability, factor analysis, and validity assessments.

Main Results:

• The CSS-M demonstrated good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.821) and inter-item correlation.
• Exploratory factor analysis confirmed a two-factorial structure.
• The scale exhibited valid composite reliability, discriminate validity, and partial convergent validity.

Conclusions:

• The COVID-19 Stigma Scale-Modified (CSS-M) is a valid and reliable instrument for assessing COVID-19-related stigma.
• The scale's psychometric properties, including internal consistency and validity, support its use.
• Future research should focus on developing specific, validated scales for COVID-19-related stigma.