Abstract :
The current study aimed to investigate internalized stigma, social connectedness, and coping strategies in caregivers of adults with schizophrenia spectrum disorder (SSD). The study hypothesized that there is likely a significant correlation between internalised self-stigma and coping strategies, and social connectedness is likely to moderate this relationship. A sample of 250 caregivers of adults with schizophrenia spectrum disorder, men and women, aged 20 to 60 years, from both public and private sector hospitals of Lahore, was selected through purposive sampling. The measures used to collect the data were the Self-Stigma in Relatives of People with Mental Illness scale (Morris et al., 2017), the Social Connectedness Scale (Lee & Robins, 1995), and the Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced Inventory (Brief-COPE: Carver, 1997). Data were analyzed using SPSS 25; reliability analyses revealed that all scales had good reliability. The correlation results showed a significant relationship between internalized self-stigma, social connectedness, and coping strategies (avoidant and approach). Moderation analyses were conducted, revealing the moderating role of social connectedness in the relationship between internalised self-stigma and coping strategies (avoidant and approach). This study highlights the development and application of approaches to address caregivers' needs. Moreover, it will be helpful to explore available ways to support caregivers and minimize the unfavorable effects of caregiving.