Personal and Perceived Stigmas in Adolescents toward Peers with Mental Disorders in West Sumatra Indonesia

BACKGROUND: The number of mental disorders in adolescents tends to increase every year in Indonesia. However, the stigma of mental disorders is a crucial factor that makes teens hide their mental health problem (MHP). AIM: This study aimed to examine personal and perceived among adolescents toward peers with mental disorders (PMD) and to identify predictors of these constructs. METHODS: This quantitative study with a cross-sectional design recruited 977 adolescents using a cluster random sampling technique. Personal and perceived stigma was assessed using the Peer Mental Health Stigmatization Scale. Sociodemographic, the experience of MHP, and experiences of seeking-help professionals for perceived MHP were also collected in this study. Independent t-test, ANOVA, and multivariable general linear models was used for analysis. RESULTS: The study shows that the perceived stigma (M = 36.62, standard deviation [SD] = 5,183) tends to be higher than personal stigma (M = 39.49, SD = 5,495). Higher personal stigma was predicted by a lower level of academic (p < 0.01), lower levels of family monthly income (p < 0.01), and higher perceived stigma (p < 0.001). Higher perceived stigma was predicted by younger age (p < 0.05), lower levels of academic (p < 0.05), higher levels of family monthly income (p < 0.05), and higher personal stigma (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that stigmatization towards PMD is common among adolescents. The development of intervention programs should be directed at reducing negative perceptions of the environment. The identified predictors must also be considered in the development of future anti-stigma program