The relationship between self-stigma and care burden in caregivers of children with chronic illness

This study aimed to examine the relationship between self- stigma and care burden in caregivers of children with chronic diseases. The population of the study consisted of the caregivers of all patients admitted to the Pediatric Health and Diseases outpatient clinics, inpatient units, or emergency services of the Private Yeni Hayat Medical Center with a diagnosis of a chronic illness or hospitalized for treatment between June 10 and October 30, 2024. The sample consisted of 399 caregivers who met the inclusion criteria. Data collected in the study were based on the Information Form, Zarit Care Burden Scale and Self-Stigma Inventory Family Form. Descriptive statistics, independent sample t test, one-way analysis of variance, Pearson correlation analysis and multiple linear regression analysis were used to analyze the data. The mean total care burden score of caregivers was 38.58±14.59. The mean scores of selfstigmatization total score, social withdrawal, disease concealment and perceived worthlessness sub-dimensions were 29.20±11.70, 14.05±5.86, 4.85±2.65 and 10.28±5.05, respectively. The mean scores of self-stigma total score, social withdrawal, disease concealment and perceived worthlessness subscales were 29.20±11.70, 14.05±5.86, 4.85±2.65 and 10.28±5.05, respectively. There was a significant positive relationship between perceived devaluation and social withdrawal and burden of care, and a significant negative relationship between the concealment of the illness. In addition, the degree of closeness with the patient, the duration of daily care, the age of the patient and the duration of the disease affected the burden of care. The results of the study revealed that self-stigma was significant as well as sociodemographic characteristics in caregivers of children with chronic diseases.