Creation and psychometric assessment of the stigma scale for student caregivers of individuals with sexually transmitted infections (STISS) - Summary - MDSpire

Creation and psychometric assessment of the stigma scale for student caregivers of individuals with sexually transmitted infections (STISS)

  • By

  • Dilay Açıl

  • Sema Üstgörül

  • March 3, 2026

  • 0 min

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Objective:

To develop and assess a stigma scale specifically for student caregivers of individuals with sexually transmitted infections (STIs), highlighting its potential to improve care.

Key Findings:
  • The stigma scale demonstrated strong psychometric properties, indicating it is a reliable and valid tool for measuring stigma among student caregivers, with high internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha > 0.85).
  • Stigma related to STIs significantly impacts the psychological well-being of caregivers and the quality of care provided, leading to increased caregiver stress and reduced patient support.
Interpretation:

The findings underscore the importance of addressing stigma in healthcare settings to improve care for individuals with STIs and support caregivers, suggesting that training for healthcare providers could mitigate stigma.

Limitations:
  • The study may not be generalizable to all caregiver populations due to its specific focus on student caregivers, which may limit the applicability of the findings to other caregiver demographics.
  • Potential biases in self-reported data could affect the accuracy of stigma assessments, potentially leading to underreporting or overreporting of stigma experiences.
Conclusion:

The STISS is a valuable tool for understanding and addressing stigma in the context of STIs, which can enhance caregiver support and patient outcomes.

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