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This is a Quantitative Study study.

October 2, 2025Open Access

A Preliminary Study on the Development of a Stigma Scale for Suicide Survivors

Key Points

The stigma scale incorporates 15 items across four factors, enhancing understanding of survivors' experiences.
The exploratory factor analysis revealed four key components of stigma, providing a valuable measurement tool for researchers.
Content validation ensured that the scale accurately reflects the stigma faced in Korean culture, increasing its reliability.
Acceptable internal consistency of the scale suggests it could be a useful resource for therapists working with suicide survivors.

Abstract

Background: This preliminary study explored the stigma surrounding suicide loss in survivors in South Korea and develops a scale for measuring this stigma.Methods: An open-ended survey (N=57; 18 men, 39 women) and a structured questionnaire (N=250; 94 males, 156 females) were administered to adults who had experienced bereavement due to the suicide of a close family member or partner (e.g., parent, child, spouse, or significant other). Preliminary items were generated based on open-ended responses. The items were then subjected to content validation and revision by a panel of experts, resulting in 70 preliminary items. The questionnaire was administered based on these items.Results: The exploratory factor analysis yielded a stigma scale comprising four factors and 15 items. The four factors were labeled as follows: Vulnerable Individual, Responsibility for Suicide, Relational Discomfort, and Relational Distancing. The scale demonstrated acceptable internal consistency.Conclusions: This study is relevant because it developed a culturally relevant scale to assess the stigma experienced by survivors of suicide loss in Korean society.

A Preliminary Study on the Development of a Stigma Scale for Suicide Survivors

Key Points

Abstract

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