Case Study : Family Experiences in Public Society Stigma Among People with Mental Disorders

Abstract

Objective: To explore the family's experience of public stigma toward individuals with mental disorders. Method: This study employed a qualitative approach with multiple case studies. Data were collected through interviews with families of individuals with mental disorders from one area in the Garut Regency.

Methods : This qualitative multiple case study explores family experiences of public stigma toward individuals with mental disorders in Garut Regency. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews, analyzed using content analysis. Ethical standards were maintained, with confidentiality assured. Themes emerged on stigma frequency, impact, and coping strategies.

Results: No experiences of public stigma were reported, as individuals with mental disorders were considered neither dangerous nor harmful to society. However, families expressed feelings of anxiety, worry, and sadness regarding their members' conditions, as they had not fully recovered and were facing challenges in the treatment process.

Conclusion: Overall, the study concludes that, based on interview data, families of individuals with mental disorders currently do not experience societal stigma. Future researchers should be well-prepared in the data collection process and strive to gather more detailed information related to the topic.