Determining the relationship between the stigmatizing attitudes of relatives of individuals with substance use disorder, the stigmatization status of the individual, and their self-compassion

Objective: This study aims to examine the relationship between the levels of stigmatization experienced by individuals with substance use disorders, the stigmatizing attitudes of their relatives, and the self-compassion of the individuals. Method: This descriptive and correlational study was conducted with 181 patients and 181 relatives who met the inclusion criteria. Data were collected between September 2023 and March 2024 using the Sociodemographic Data Form, Substance Use Stigma Mechanism Scale (SUSMS), Self-Compassion Scale (SCS), and Yedam Substance Addiction Stigmatization Scale (YSASS). The data were analyzed using SPSS 23.0. A 95% confidence level was used to determine the significance of differences in the analyses. Findings: The analysis results revealed that there is a weak and negative relationship (p<0.05) between the self-compassion of individuals with substance use disorders and their experiences of stigma. No significant relationship (p>0.05) was found between individuals' self-compassion, their experiences of stigma, and the stigmatizing attitudes of their close ones. It was determined that there is a weak and positive relationship (p<0.05) between the scores of the "Perceived Stigma" and "Anticipated Stigma" subscales of the Substance Use Stigma Mechanism Scale and the stigmatizing attitudes of individuals' close ones. Conclusion: Findings indicate that the attitudes of close ones of individuals with substance use disorders have a significant impact on the stigma. It also shows that as the level of self-compassion of individuals decreases, their experiences of stigma increase. The study suggests organizing educational programs aimed at preventing stigma for individuals and their families, conducting awareness campaigns to spread correct information to reduce stigmatizing behaviors, and implementing psychosocial interventions to enhance the self-compassion of individuals with substance use disorders.