Impact Of Affiliated Stigma On Social Isolation Among Caregivers Of Schizophrenia And Bipolar Patients: Moderating Role Of Family Resilience.

Abstract

Background: Caregivers of individuals with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder often experience affiliated stigma, which can lead to social isolation and emotional distress. Understanding the relationship between affiliated stigma and social isolation is crucial for developing interventions that support caregiver well-being. Family resilience has been proposed as a potential moderator that may mitigate the negative impact of stigma on social isolation.

Objectives: This study examines the relationship between affiliated stigma and social isolation among caregivers of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder patients, with a specific focus on the moderating role of family resilience.

Study Design: Cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study. Department of psychiatry in Benazir Bhutto hospital from jan 2023 to Jan 2024

Methods: A total of 150 caregivers of individuals with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder participated in the study. Standardized measures, including the Affiliate Stigma Scale (ASS), Lubben Social Networking Scale (LSNS), and Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CDRS), were used to assess stigma, social isolation, and resilience levels, respectively. Correlational analysis was conducted to examine the relationship between affiliated stigma and social isolation, followed by regression and moderation analyses to assess the predictive role of stigma and the buffering effect of resilience.

Results: A significant positive correlation was found between affiliated stigma and social isolation (r = .31, p < .01). Regression analysis confirmed that affiliated stigma is a significant predictor of social isolation (β = .31, p < .001). Moderation analysis revealed that resilience significantly buffered the negative impact of stigma on social isolation, indicating that caregivers with higher resilience experienced lower levels of isolation despite stigma.

Conclusion: Strengthening caregivers’ resilience can mitigate the adverse effects of affiliated stigma and reduce social isolation. Resilience-based interventions and social support systems should be prioritized to enhance caregiver well-being. Mental health professionals and policymakers must implement resilience-building programs and public awareness campaigns to address societal misconceptions about mental illness and caregiving. Future research should explore longitudinal effects and incorporate qualitative methods to provide deeper insights into caregivers’ lived experiences. Addressing both stigma and resilience contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of caregiver well-being and highlights the importance of targeted psychological support strategies.