Outcomes of Perceived Stigma Among Epilepsy Patients

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of present study was to study the impact of perceived stigma on three outcomes including self-concept, self-esteem and social isolation among people with epilepsy. Study Design: Purposive sampling technique. Duration: October 2014 to May 2015. Setting: Awan Clinic Sargodha, CDA Hospital Islamabad and Col. Masood’s Psychiatric Clinic, Lahore. Methodology: The sample consisted of 186 people with epilepsy. To collect the data The Stigma Scale, Six Factor Self-concept Scale, Rosenberg Self Esteem Scale and Social Network Index were used to measure the variables under study. Results: Results showed that perceived stigma had considerable negative connection with self-esteem and social isolation, moreover minor connection with self-concept was noticed. Regression analysis revealed that stigma is a very important negative predictor of self-esteem and social isolation. Conclusions: The present study was an attempt to highlight the psycho-social issues which play an important role in the lives of epileptic patients. It can assist clinical psychologists and psychiatrists to understand clearly the strong impacts of stigma to bring awareness among masses.