Fatemeh Rezayat1, Eesa Mohammadi1, Masoud Fallahi-Khoshknab2. 1. Nursing Department, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran. 2. Nursing Department, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The way people with schizophrenia spectrum disorders and families address stigma has a significant role in their vulnerability to this distressing phenomenon. However, there is little knowledge about this issue in Middle Eastern countries. PURPOSE: Exploring the process of addressing stigma in people with schizophrenia spectrum disorders and families. DESIGN AND METHODS: In our grounded theory study, we interviewed seven patients and nine family members and used a constant comparative analysis approach for data analysis. FINDINGS: The participants expressed being socially rejected and oppressed by others. In addressing stigma, the patients and families surrendered passively and reluctantly. This main strategy sometimes led to deprivation and isolation and sometimes resulted in lessening their tension. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Mental health nurses can empower patients and families with the skills necessary to counter stigma and, in this way, modify the sense of disability as an obstacle to stigma resistance. Also, mental health nurses can modify the contextual factors of stigma by initiating campaigns, educating society members, and involving them in fighting stigma.
BACKGROUND: The way people with schizophrenia spectrum disorders and families address stigma has a significant role in their vulnerability to this distressing phenomenon. However, there is little knowledge about this issue in Middle Eastern countries. PURPOSE: Exploring the process of addressing stigma in people with schizophrenia spectrum disorders and families. DESIGN AND METHODS: In our grounded theory study, we interviewed seven patients and nine family members and used a constant comparative analysis approach for data analysis. FINDINGS: The participants expressed being socially rejected and oppressed by others. In addressing stigma, the patients and families surrendered passively and reluctantly. This main strategy sometimes led to deprivation and isolation and sometimes resulted in lessening their tension. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Mental health nurses can empower patients and families with the skills necessary to counter stigma and, in this way, modify the sense of disability as an obstacle to stigma resistance. Also, mental health nurses can modify the contextual factors of stigma by initiating campaigns, educating society members, and involving them in fighting stigma.
Authors: Lisa-Marie Dobener; Julia Fahrer; Daniel Purtscheller; Annette Bauer; Jean Lillian Paul; Hanna Christiansen Journal: Front Psychiatry Date: 2022-02-18 Impact factor: 4.157