Determinants of felt-stigma in epilepsy: Is it the same story?

Purpose The present study aimed to investigate previously researched variables in adult individuals with epilepsy (PWE), which include felt stigma, perceived overprotection, concealment of epilepsy, and epilepsy-related concerns for adolescents with epilepsy (AWE). Another goal was to determine the reported levels of these variables and explore the relationships among them, as well as their associations with demographic and clinical factors. Additionally, we also investigated whether clinical and demographic variables create significant changes in these variables. Lastly, we aimed to determine the variables that predict felt-stigma in AWE. Methods On hundred and nineteen AWE aged between 10-18 were included in the study by using convenience sampling. Participants received the scales and demographic information form either in face to face meeting or via a Zoom session. Results Nearly half of the participants stated high level of felt stigma, perceived overprotection and concealment of epilepsy, while more than half reported concerns about their future/occupational prospects. Also, felt stigma had significant relations with concealment of epilepsy and concerns related to epilepsy. Early adolescents were under more risk for perceived overprotection, while late adolescents had higher concerns related to future/occupation. Females reported more felt stigma. Finally, felt stigma was predicted by concealment, concerns related to future/occupation, and concerns related to social life. Conclusion The variables that explain the felt-stigma in AWE appear to be quite similar to those in adult PWE.