Stigma by association: Experiences of community psychiatric nurses in the Accra Metropolis, Ghana

Abigail A. Buertey, Alexander Attiogbe, Lydia Aziato

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

6 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to explore how Community Psychiatric Nurses experienced stigma in their line of duty. Methods: The study adopted qualitative exploratory descriptive design. Participants were selected from three district hospitals (Ga South, Ga Central and Okaikoi) all in the Accra Metropolis. Twelve (12) participants between the ages of 26 and 40 were selected using a purposive sampling technique. After transcribing verbatim audio-taped individual interviews, the data were analysed using content analysis procedures. Results: Five (5) themes emerged including: Mocking and labelling, discrimination, expression of genuine concern about their safety, poor image and associative stigma. Mostly, the community psychiatric nurses felt ridiculed and belittled as they experienced open negative labelling in the community. Conclusions: The findings draws attention for the need for all Community Psychiatric Nurses to be respected and not ridiculed so they can work effectively and ensure decentralization of care. Stigma can be reduced through extensive education using various media outlets. Adequate logistics is necessary to enhance the work of community psychiatry nurses.

Original languageEnglish
Article number100260
JournalInternational Journal of Africa Nursing Sciences
Volume13
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jan 2020

Keywords

  • Community Psychiatric Nurses
  • Ghana
  • Psychiatry
  • Qualitative
  • Stigma

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