Attitudes toward Serious Mental Illness (Stigma) [ASMI-S-34]

Brief Description

This tool consists of 34 statements formulated as personal opinions, rated using a Likert scale. Each item reflects an individual viewpoint, and responses are given on a five-point scale ranging from “agree” to “disagree.” Completion time is approximately 10 minutes.

Purpose

The questionnaire is designed to capture personal perceptions, attitudes, and beliefs about serious mental illness and to detect the presence of stigma and/or self-stigma. It focuses on the psychological dimension of social prejudice experienced by individuals with severe mental disorders.

Scoring Method

Participants respond using a five-point Likert scale: “agree,” “somewhat agree,” “neither agree nor disagree,” “somewhat disagree,” and “disagree.” Evaluation is quantitative, based on the distribution of responses per item and overall.

Validity

The validity of the tool is theoretically supported, drawing on established models of social stigma and relevant literature. It has been used with samples of mental health professionals and students, confirming its applicability across diverse population groups.

Reliability

No specific reliability index (e.g., Cronbach’s alpha) is provided in this presentation. However, reference is made to the use of reliability and validity testing methods within research applications, indicating sufficient psychometric support.

Data Analysis and Use

The tool was administered to a sample of 110 mental health professionals, 35 psychology students, and 160 nursing students. It was used to examine differences in attitudes between groups and to detect potential elements of stigma in both general and professional populations. Data are analyzed using descriptive and correlational statistical methods.