Özet:

Aim: The present study was planned to determine the stigmatization experienced by individuals with COVID-19 and their perceived social support levels. Methods: The sample of this descriptive and cross-sectional study consists of 389 individuals diagnosed with COVID-19. In the study, the data were collected by using a questionnaire form and Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS). The questionnaire form consists of 16 questions about the sociodemographic characteristic of individuals and 19 statements to determine stigmatizing attitudes and behaviors they were exposed to in their social environment due to COVID-19 diagnosis. Results: In this study, MSPSS total score of individuals diagnosed with COVID-19 was found as 69.9±14.4; while their Perceived Social Support from Family subscale, Perceived Social Support from Friend subscale and Perceived Social Support from Significant other subscale mean scores were found as 24.8 ± 4.5, 23.4 ± 5.7 and 21.6 ± 7.7, respectively. It was found that perceived social support levels of individuals differed in terms of some sociodemographic characteristics. Conclusion: In the present study, it was found that individuals diagnosed with COVID-19 were exposed to stigmatizing behaviors and attitudes; however, their levels of perceived social support were high and they were mostly supported by their families and friends. Due to the limited number of studies on the subject, it is recommended to conduct studies using qualitative and quantitative research design together in order to find out the stigma experienced by individuals with COVID-19 and the level of support they have.