Perceived Stigma among Individuals with Alcoholism: A Qualitative Descriptive Study

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to describe perceived stigma among individuals with alcoholism.

Methods: Individual interviews were conducted with 14 individuals with alcoholism, and descriptive analysis was performed on the transcripts.

Results: Five categories were identified regarding perceived stigma among individuals with alcoholism; (i) an individual’s own will is the cause behind the inability to control drinking, (ii) an individual deviates from social norms, (iii) lack of understanding about the characteristics of alcoholism, (iv) negative evaluation of humanity just for individuals with alcoholism, and (v) individuals with alcoholism are rejected because they are unsafe and troublesome.

Discussion: Individuals with alcoholism are in distress because they feel that their illness is unclear for those around them and their humanity is rejected.