Change in internalized stigma and social functioning among persons diagnosed with severe mental illness

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between change in internalized stigma and social functioning over time. Thirty-five individuals with severe mental illness completed measures of self-stigma, social functioning and symptoms at baseline, 4 months, and 7 months. Change in self-stigma was significantly negatively related to change in social functioning, controlling for negative symptoms. © 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd.