Differences in perceived stigma by addictive behaviors: a gender-based analysis

Background. It has been shown that addictions are stigmatized and that this stigma affects a person’s well-; being and treatment-seeking. This study aims to analyze whether individuals exhibiting various addictive; behaviors –specifically alcohol use, drug use, gambling, gaming, and compulsive buying– experience; greater levels of perceived stigma than those without such issues. Additionally, the study aims to examine; differences in stigma based on sex. Methods. The sample consisted of a total of 136 participants from the; general population. The participants’ age ranged from 18 to 63 years (Mage = 42.13; SD = 9.32), and 78.7%; were female. Results. There are significant differences in discrimination and disclosure between individuals; who report problematic use of illegal substances and gaming and those who do not. For women, significant; differences were found in discrimination and positive aspects subscale based on problematic use of illegal; substance use and gaming. Among male population, there were significant differences between men with; compulsive buying in discrimination and positive aspects compared to non-problematic use. Conclusion.; Identifying the populations that are most susceptible to stigma is crucial for developing effective strategies; for its prevention and reducing potential detrimental consequences.