The Interplay Between Stigma and Asian Cultural Values in People with Parkinson's Disease and Their Caregivers.

Abstract

Parkinson's Disease (PD), the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder globally, often carries stigma for those affected; however, stigma's impact on PD caregivers is not well understood. This study investigates PD stigma and its interplay with cultural values, as well as explores the role of depressive symptomatology in shaping help-seeking attitudes among individuals with PD and the provision of support by PD caregivers. Using cross-sectional data collected from people living with PD and their caregivers, this study examines how adherence to Asian values influences the link between self-stigma and help-seeking tendencies in PD patients, as well as how affiliate stigma is linked to caregivers' willingness to help. Further, the mediational role of depression was explored. Among Chinese Parkinson's Disease (PD) patients, stronger adherence to Asian values heightens the negative effect of self-stigma on help-seeking from both professional and non-professional sources, with this process mediated by levels of depression. Similarly, caregivers exhibit the influence of affiliate stigma on help provision, which is accentuated by a higher adherence to Asian values; however, depression was not found to be a significant mediator in this context. This study underscores the need for culturally sensitive interventions tailored to Asian PD-affected families, highlighting its significance in both patient and caregiver contexts.