Clin Child Psychol Psychiatry. 2025 Nov 17:13591045251399483. doi: 10.1177/13591045251399483. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
BackgroundMental health stigma remains a significant barrier to treatment and recovery, particularly among adolescents. This study explores perceived stigma in previously hospitalized adolescents, their perceptions of inpatient psychiatric care, and parental self-stigma.MethodsWe employed a cross-sectional, mixed-methods design with 82 adolescents (n = 67 females), aged 12-17 years (M = 15.5, SD = 1.2) and their parents. Quantitative measures included the Adolescent’s Stigma Scale, Parents’ Self-Stigma Scale, and Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Qualitative data were collected via open-ended questions and analyzed using content analysis.ResultsFindings indicated notable perceived stigma, especially among older adolescents (15-17 years) and those two hospitalizations, with secrecy, self-stigma, and rejection associated with emotional and behavioural difficulties. Parental self-stigma correlated with child’s age and length of hospitalization, and inversely with adolescent secrecy. Qualitative findings revealed that hospitalization offered emotional support and opportunities for personal growth, yet also posed challenges to autonomy, social and educational stability, and psychological well-being.ConclusionsFindings highlight the need for flexible hospital policies, improved discharge communication, mental health literacy initiatives, and peer-support programs. Future research should examine cultural influences, stigma trajectories, and effective family-based interventions for adolescents.
PMID:41248620 | DOI:10.1177/13591045251399483
