Stigma assessment: Scales review

Objective: The assessment of stigma is a multifaceted process requiring a comprehensive understanding of stigma itself, quantification of its degree, evaluation of changes over time, and assessment of the effectiveness of interventions aimed at reducing or preventing it. This study aims to review some of the most widely used scales in health-related stigma assessment and to compare them in terms of their specific characteristics, strengths, and limitations.

Materials and methods: In January 2025, a review was conducted using the PubMed database to analyze publications addressing the assessment of stigma through scales or questionnaires. Specific descriptors were employed, focusing on mental illnesses, infectious diseases, overweight and obesity, and sexual and gender minorities. Comparative reviews and studies detailing the application and performance of these scales were included in the analysis.

Results: The review identified and compared 20 scales for assessing mental health stigma, 12 scales for stigma related to infectious diseases and symptoms, 17 scales for weight stigma, and 17 scales for stigma affecting sexual and gender minorities.

Conclusion: Stigma limits the life opportunities of individuals experiencing discrimination due to illness or personal and social circumstances. Most stigma assessment scales and questionnaires lack specificity, methodological rigor, and clear definitions tailored to the particular stigma being evaluated. Future research should prioritize the development of robust conceptual frameworks, enhance methodological validity, and promote early-stage interventions to mitigate harm caused by stigma.