Developing a Scale to Measure STI-Related Stigma in Women
Author Information
Author(s): Melanie LA Rusch, Jean A Shoveller, Susan Burgess, Karen Stancer, David M Patrick, Mark W Tyndall
Primary Institution: University of British Columbia
Hypothesis
The study aims to develop a scale to measure the unique experience of STI-related stigma among women.
Conclusion
The study found that culture and age significantly influence different types of stigma experienced by women regarding STIs.
Supporting Evidence
- Three stigma scales were identified: female-specific moral stigma, social stigma, and internal stigma.
- Aboriginal ethnicity was linked to higher internal and female-specific moral stigma scores.
- Older age was associated with higher female-specific moral stigma scores.
Takeaway
This study created a tool to help understand how women feel about STIs, showing that their feelings can be affected by their culture and age.
Methodology
Women were recruited from a community health clinic and completed a structured interview to assess stigma related to STIs.
Potential Biases
The study may not account for the experiences of women not connected to community services.
Limitations
The sample was a convenience sample from a specific clinic, limiting generalizability, and the scales need further validation.
Participant Demographics
Median age was 42 years, approximately 40% identified as Aboriginal, and 95% were unemployed.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.002
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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