Applying stigma theory to epilepsy: a test of a conceptual model.
Tested a theoretical model that sought to explain the association of stigma to self-esteem among adolescents with epilepsy. The model depicted hypothesized relationships among several characteristics of epilepsy (seizure type, seizure frequency, and duration of epilepsy), perceived stigma, management of disclosure, and self-esteem. Subjects were 64 adolescents 12 to 20 years old with idiopathic epilepsy. In a hierarchical multiple regression analysis, variables were entered into the equation in the order specified a priori by the model. Results showed that the data supported some hypotheses tested in the model: (a) Seizure type and seizure frequency predicted low self-esteem, and (b) the belief that epilepsy is stigmatizing predicted low self-esteem. However, several relationships of major theoretical significance were not realized. Explanations for why some aspects of stigma theory were not supported by the data are offered.
Westbrook
L E
LE
Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Bronx, New York 10461.
Bauman
L J
LJ
Shinnar
S
S
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000293:Adolescent; D004827:Epilepsy / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008960:Models, Psychological; D010553:Personality Development; D011287:Prejudice; D011582:Psychological Theory; D012059:Rejection, Psychology; D012649:Self Concept; D012803:Sick Role