The Effects of Loneliness and Internalized Stigma on Perceived Social Support in People with AIDS: A Cross-Sectional Study
Eleni Tsilika, Efi Parpa, Polyxeni Pikea, Stylianos Katsaragakis, Kyriaki Mystakidou

Abstract
A cross-sectional study examined social support, loneliness, internalized stigma, the effects of loneliness and internalized stigma on perceived social support in 140 Greek adults with AIDS. The Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Scale, UCLA Loneliness Scale, and Internalized AIDS-Related Stigma were administered. Significant associations: between social support, social loneliness, psychological loneliness, isolation, and Aids Related Stigma. Psychological loneliness and isolation had the strongest effect on social support. Efforts reducing them may positively affect social support.

Full Text: PDF