Description

The China MSM Stigma Scale (CMSMS) is a psychometric tool designed to assess the stigma experienced by men who have sex with men (MSM) in China. MSM-related stigma includes social, cultural, and institutional discrimination that individuals may face due to their sexual orientation. This scale includes various statements that explore experiences of stigma across different contexts, such as family, workplace, and broader society.

Purpose

The primary goal of the CMSMS is to provide a reliable and valid instrument for evaluating the stigma experienced by MSM in China. This tool helps researchers and clinicians gain a deeper understanding of the impact of stigma on the mental health, social well-being, and access to healthcare services among MSM. The information gathered can be used to develop interventions and policies aimed at reducing stigma and promoting equality and well-being for MSM populations.

Analysis

The analysis of data collected through the CMSMS involves the use of statistical methods to evaluate the tool’s reliability and validity. Reliability analysis, such as the use of Cronbach’s alpha, ensures the internal consistency of the items. Factor analysis may be used to confirm the scale’s structure and identify underlying dimensions of stigma. Additionally, correlation analyses can be conducted to examine the relationships between CMSMS scores and other psychological and social variables, such as mental health, quality of life, and healthcare access.

Scoring

The CMSMS is scored using a Likert scale, where participants are asked to rate each statement from 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree). Total scores are calculated by summing the individual item ratings related to stigma. Higher scores indicate greater experiences of stigma, while lower scores indicate fewer such experiences.

References

Yang, H., Li, X., Zhang, S., Dong, L., & Anderson, A. F. (2005). Stigma, discrimination and abandonment of older people infected with HIV/AIDS in China. AIDS Care, 17(8), 903–910.
Liu, H., Feng, T., Rhodes, A. G., Liu, H., & Feng, T. (2009). Assessment of the Chinese version of HIV and homosexuality related stigma scales. Sexually Transmitted Infections, 85(1), 65–69.
Li, X., Wang, H., & Williams, A. B. (2009). Stigma reported by people living with HIV in south central China. Journal of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care, 20(1), 22–30.
He, N., Wong, F. Y., Huang, Z. J., Thompson, E. E., & Fu, C. (2007). Substance use and HIV risks among male heterosexual and ‘money boy’ migrants in Shanghai, China. AIDS Care, 19(1), 109–115.
Liu, Y., Canada, K., Shi, K., & Corrigan, P. (2012). HIV-related stigma acting as predictors of unemployment of people living with HIV/AIDS. AIDS Care, 24(1), 129–135.