Experiences of Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes Facing Social Stigma: A Qualitative Study
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Abstract
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of individuals globally, often accompanied by significant social stigma. While stigma associated with diabetes has been widely acknowledged, research has largely focused on its physical and health-related impacts, neglecting the emotional and psychological dimensions of the experience. This gap in understanding the lived experiences of individuals with diabetes prompted the research question: How does social stigma affect the self-perception and mental health of individuals with diabetes? This study employs a phenomenological approach to explore this question, aiming to uncover the personal and emotional meanings individuals with diabetes attach to their experience of stigma. The study was conducted in a community-based healthcare setting, involving adult participants with a confirmed diagnosis of diabetes who had experienced social stigma in their daily lives.. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 10 participants diagnosed with diabetes, focusing on their emotional responses, coping mechanisms, and perceptions of stigma. Interview data were transcribed verbatim, carefully reviewed, coded, and interpreted through thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns and meanings related to stigma, self-perception, and mental health.Thematic analysis revealed that stigma significantly impacted participants’ self-worth, leading to feelings of shame and social withdrawal, but also highlighted the protective role of social support in mitigating these effects. These findings contribute to the literature by emphasizing the importance of subjective experiences in stigma research and the need for empathetic healthcare interventions. Future research should explore stigma-reduction strategies and the role of healthcare providers in managing stigma in chronic illness contexts.
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