Emotional Intelligence and Perceived Stigma in the Care Takers of Schizophrenia: A Study from South India

Arunima R.

Abstract: Background: Care givers have an important role in patients care. The stigma associated with illness has made care giving a challenging job. Very few studies had been done focusing on the emotional in intelligence and stigma in care givers. Hence the study was undertaken. Aim: To study association of emotional intelligence and perceived stigma in the care givers of schizophrenia patients. Materials and Methods: Study was done in100 care givers of schizophrenia attending a tertiary hospital in Warangal after fulfilling inclusion criteria. A semi - structured performance was administered to collect socio demographic details followed by Wong and Law emotional intelligence scale and Family stress stigma scale. Data was analysed using SPSS 28.0. Result: Females, and care givers residing in rural areas perceive higher stigma. Perceived stigma increases as the duration of care giving increases. Males have higher emotional intelligence compared to females. There is a statistically significant association between emotional intelligence and perceived stigma in the care givers. Conclusion: The present study shows that emotional intelligence is higher males compared to female caregivers and female care givers perceive higher stigma compared to male. The study shows a significant association between emotional intelligence in the care givers and the stigma perceived by them.

Keywords: Care takers, perceived stigma, emotional intelligence