The experience of self-stigmatization among patients with psychotic disorders and stigma´s effects on existence : A literature review

Background: It´s obvious that stigma reduces life opportunities and make people act throughout an outcast role. Stigma enters spheres where it is made up to protect a group, but only results in painful feelings for the vulnerable. Individuals suffering from psychosis are exposed to discrimination because of fear and prejudices. These are applied upon individuals whereas they stigmatize themselves. Aim: To investigate the experience of self-stigma and stigmas effects on life for patients suffering from psychosis. Method: 24 scientific articles have been used and analyzed together with Whittemore and Knalfs integrative method (2005) for the result in this literature review. After formulating a problem literature has been searched, evaluated, and analyzed in four steps which are presented. The literature was found through databases, free searching compounds and through references. As a theoretic framework the figure Existentiell ensamhet hos personer med psykiska funktionshinder from the doctoral Berättelser om ensamhetens vardag has been used. Results: The psychiatric contact, to be a psychiatric patient and being labeled with a psychiatric diagnosis affected the way individuals labeled themselves. Individuals wanted to be seen as unique and listened to. The diagnosis contributed to feelings of shame and affected self-esteem and self-ability. Through acceptance of the disease participants could become something different than just a patient in the psychiatric services. Through other people the participant’s self-image could be built up. Social stigmas were described in all levels of society and also within the family. Relationships were important and a link to live a normal life and recover. Normality was desirable and said to occur through activities such as work and studies. Discussion: Was discussed through relevant research and Anette Erdners figure Existentiell ensamhet hos personer med psykiska funktionshinder from the doctoral Berättelser om ensamhetens vardag