Perceived stigma of alcohol dependency: comparative influence on patients and family members

Abstract

Limited empirical research can be found that specifically compares the perceptions of stigma among individuals with alcohol disorders and their family members. Thus, the present study investigates the stigma-related perceptions and experiences of alcohol-dependent patients and their family members. The sample collected in South Korea included 106 patients who had recently completed a rehabilitation program after being diagnosed with alcohol dependency. In addition, 60 family members of the patients were recruited. Interestingly, the results demonstrated that the overall level of stigma perceived by family members was significantly higher than that of their ill relatives. Multiple regression results revealed that being female and perceiving higher importance about the social role of drinking influenced increased feelings of stigma among patients.

• Alcohol
• alcohol dependency
• family
• stigma

Declaration of interest

The authors report no conflicts of interest.