Stigma research in Arab countries: a rapid review
| Date | 01 January 2024 |
| Pages | 1014-1024 |
| DOI | https://doi.org/10.1108/MHSI-10-2023-0111 |
| Published date | 01 January 2024 |
| Subject Matter | Health & social care,Mental health,Social inclusion |
| Author | Waleed Sweileh |
Stigma research in Arab countries:
a rapid review
Waleed Sweileh
Abstract
Purpose –This paper aimsto provide a comprehensive overview of existingresearch on stigma in Arab
countries.
Design/methodology/approach –A rapid reviewapproach was used, leveragingthe Scopus database
to identify relevant articles.This streamlined method allows for timely assessments of the currentstate of
knowledge,identifies research gaps and is particularly relevant given the social and culturaldynamics in
Arab countries.
Findings –This study identified a growing interest in stigma-relatedtopics in Arab countries, with a
notable increase in the number of publications and citations over the past decade. Research
focused on various aspects of stigma, including menta l health, HIV, COVID-19 and diverse health
conditions, shedding light on the prevalent chal lenges faced by different populations. Additionally,
comparative studies highlighted the influence of cultureand gender on the expression of stigma in
the region.
Practical implications –To combat stigmain Arab countries, this study suggests the needfor culturally
sensitive interventions, integration of mental health services into health-care systems and the
development of public health campaigns. These measures should be designed to protect vulnerable
populations and prioritize educational initiatives for both the younger generation and health-care
professionals.
Social implications –Reducing stigmain Arab countries is crucial for fostering greatersocial cohesion,
equality and overall well-being. The study underscores the importance of collaborations to adapt
successfulstrategies to the unique Arab context.
Originality/value –This paper fills a crucial research gap by investigating stigma in Arab countries,
emphasizing the need for culturally sensitive interventions, education integration and international
collaborationto combat it effectively.
Keywords Arab countries, Stigma, Mental health, Cultural sensitivity
Paper type Research paper
Introduction
Stigma is a complex and pervasive social phenomenon that has far-reaching impli cations for
individuals and communities (Andersen et al.,2022). At its core, stigma encompasses
negative attitudes, beliefs and discriminatory behaviors directed tow ards individuals or groups
based on specific attributes, characteristics or perceived differences. These attributes can
include but are not limited to health conditions, ethnicity, religi on or social status (Fruh et al.,
2021). Stigma is not merely a matter of personal prejudice; it is dee ply rooted in societal
structures and norms (World Health Organization, 2022). Stigmati zed individuals often face
social isolation, lowered self-esteem and discrimination, which can significantly impact their
mental and emotional well-being (Wang et al., 2021). Moreover, stigma can deter individuals
from seeking essential health care and support, perpetuating health dispariti es and hindering
disease management (Westbury et al., 2023). It is a critical issue that transcends cultural
boundaries and requires thorough investigation. Furthermo re, the perpetuation of stigma can
hinder social cohesion, equality and inclusivity (Hatzenbuehler et al. ,2013). By studying and
Waleed Sweileh is based
at the Department of
Biomedical Sciences,
Faculty of Medicine and
Health Sciences,
An-Najah National
University, Nablus,
Palestine.
The author would like to
acknowledge and thank
colleagues who helped in the
validation process for their
recommendations and
suggestions.
Funding: None.
Ethics approval and consent to
participate: Not applicable.
Consent for publication: Not
applicable.
Availability of data and materials:
All data presented in this
manuscript are available on the
Scopus database (www.scopus.
com)usingthesearchquery
listed in the me thodology
section.
Competing interests: The author
declares that he has no
competing interests.
PAGE 1014 jMENTAL HEALTH AND SOCIAL INCLUSION jVOL. 28 NO. 6 2024, pp. 1014-1024, ©Emerald Publishing Limited, ISSN 2042-8308 DOI 10.1108/MHSI-10-2023-0111
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