Assessment of Stigmatization and Self-Esteem in Patients With Epilepsy

Abstract

Aim: This study was conducted to examine the relationship between stigmatization and self-esteem of patients with epilepsy. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted with 216 patients at a university hospital in Van, a province in eastern Turkey. The researcher prepared the data collection tools, including a personal information form, Jacoby Stigma Scale and the Rosenberg self-esteem scale, in line with the literature. The Jacoby stigma scale was applied to assess stigma. Data analysis was performed using t-test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and Tukey, LSD coefficient. Results: The mean total stigmatization score of patients with epilepsy was 21.11 +/- 10.00, while the mean total self-esteem score was 20.26 +/- 5.16. The study found a significant negative correlation between stigmatization and self-esteem scores (r = -0.411; p < 0.05). Conclusion: The research study revealed that patient with epilepsy have a high perception of stigma and low selfesteem levels.