Interactive Effects of Stigma Experiences and Peer Group Membership on Identity Development in Young Adults with Mental Illnes

Young adults who experience mental illness may be at risk for adverse effects of exposure to psychiatric stigma on identity development. Previous research has demonstrated that group identification may promote empowerment among members of stigmatized groups and may mitigate the impact of internalized stigma experiences. To date, few studies have characterized the interactive effects of stigma exposure and peer group membership on identity development in contemporary young adults with mental illness. This study was designed to describe the effects of psychiatric stigma experiences on identity development among young adults with mental health problems, and to assess the impact of belonging to an empowered peer group on this process. Six young adult (ages 18--25) participants with current or recent mental health problems were recruited from a mental health advocacy group on a college campus. Qualitative interviews were conducted to investigate the participants' internalization of stigma and explore the effects of group identification and peer support. Interview transcripts were then analyzed for common themes. The results of this exploratory study tended to support the idea that a novel framework for understanding stigma effects on young people is needed. Additionally, the results of thematic analysis suggested that belonging to an empowered peer group was a protective factor for the participants' syntonic identity development despite exposure to psychiatric stigma. This evidence was interpreted to form recommendations for clinical practice, support services, and updated anti-stigma programs.