P03-251 - The role of stigma resistance in persons with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder

• Published in: European psychiatry Vol. 26; p. 1420
• Main Authors: Kollmann, W, Amering, M, Schrank, B, Sibitz, I
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier SAS 2011
• Subjects: Internal Medicine; Psychiatry
• ISSN: 0924-9338; 1778-3585
• DOI: 10.1016/S0924-9338(11)73125-X

Introduction The stigma of schizophrenia is well established as a complicating feature of psychiatric treatment. The fight against stigma and discrimination may benefit from individuals’ capacity to counteract stigma (=stigma resistance). In our recently published study[i] stigma resistance emerged as a separate construct. The very nature of stigma resistance, however, is still not fully revealed. Aims The aim of our study is to shed more light on stigma resistance and gain a better insight in its genesis and impact. Methods Qualitative interviews are carried out with patients with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder following a semi-structured guideline. Transcripts of recorded interviews are coded and analysed thematically using a modified grounded theory approach. Interviews are continued until theoretical saturation is achieved. Results Preliminary results relating to the genesis of stigma resistance, its contribution to auto-protection and the concepts of life of a patient, as well as their influence on recovery will be presented. Conclusion Finding out more about determinants and consequences of stigma resistance could be a crucial step in improving the effectiveness of interventions targeting stigma and social exclusion. [i] Sibitz I, Unger A, Woppmann A, Zidek T, Amering M. Stigma resistance in patients with schizophrenia. Schizophr Bull. 2009 Jun 1. [Epub ahead of print]