The effect of the photovoice based anti-stigma program on the internalized stigma levels of individuals with mental disorders

This study was conducted to examine the impact of a photovoice anti-stigma program on internalized stigma in individuals with psychiatric disorders. The research was carried out with experimental and control groups, assessing participants' levels of internalized stigma at different time points. Findings indicated that individuals who participated in the program experienced a decrease in internalized stigma. There was a significant reduction in social withdrawal, perceived discrimination, endorsement of stereotypes, alienation, and resistance to stigma. The program helped participants express their experiences of stigma, develop strategies to cope with it, and support their personal transformation processes. Participants became more aware of their strengths, increased their motivation to rebuild social connections, and developed a more positive perspective toward society.