Self-stigma of individuals with alcohol dependence in Turkey: A qualitative study

This study aims to determine the self-stigma of individuals with alcohol dependence in Turkey. In this study, a qualitative research approach and content analysis were used. Also, the phenomenological design was implemented, which is one of the qualitative research approaches. The study group of the research consisted of 37 alcohol-dependent individuals receiving inpatient treatment in an addiction treatment center (AMATEM) in Turkey. The data for this study were collected between January 14 and May 22, 2020. Two main themes emerged: 1) Opinions of Alcohol-Dependent Individuals on Themselves 2) Opinions of Society on Alcohol-Dependent Individuals. Also, seven sub-themes emerged regarding these themes. This study determined the self-stigmatization of alcohol-dependent individuals, their regrets, and the effect of culture and Islamic religion on self-stigmatization. At the research, alcohol-dependent individuals stated that they stigmatized, despised, and loathed themselves and alcohol consumers in general. In line with these results, combatting against social stigma toward alcohol-dependent individuals and providing the individuals stigmatizing themselves (self-stigma) or addicted to alcohol with training on alcohol dependence and stigma prevention are recommended.