Group differences on affiliate stigma experienced by family caregivers of psychiatric patients

The present study aimed to study the effects of affiliate stigma among family caregivers of psychiatric patients. Total sample of 203 male and female caregivers of psychiatric patients were approached and administered the scales. The demographics and the item scores of the Affiliate Stigma Scale were analyzed using descriptive statistical analyses such as mean, standard deviation, and frequency. Moreover, t test was applied to explain group differences among demographics and affiliate stigma and its components. Results showed considerable differences between gender, marital status and employments status on affiliate stigma and its components with married, unemployed females experiencing more affiliate stigma while providing care for a family member with psychiatric illness.