Comparison of Internalized Stigma Between Psychiatric Inpatients and Outpatients at a University Psychiatric Clinic

ABSTRACT Problem Statement: Mental illnesses are prevalent globally and often accompanied by significant stigmatization, adversely impacting individuals' lives. This study aimed to investigate the level of internalized stigma among psychiatric inpatients and outpatients and to understand how various factors influence this stigmatization. Methodology: The study included 181 patients (45 inpatients and 136 outpatients) from Ankara University Faculty of Medicine Hospitals Department of Psychiatry. Data collection involved a cross-sectional questionnaire study using the Internalized Stigma of Mental Illness (ISMI) scale, the WHO Quality of Life-BREF (WHOQOL-BREF) scale, and the Beck Anxiety and Depression Inventories. Statistical analyses were performed using the Mann-Whitney U test and correlation analysis in SPSS. Main Findings: The results indicated significantly higher internalized stigma scores among inpatients compared to outpatients (p=0.01). Factors such as sex, occupational status, and income level were significantly related to various dimensions of internalized stigma. Specifically, stereotype endorsement ISMI scores were higher in males (p=0.02) and related to income level (p=0.01). No significant relationships were found between total ISMI scores and education or marital status. Additionally, anxiety and depression levels were significantly associated with internalized stigma scores (p