Psychometric Properties of Three Measures of Stigma Among Hispanics with Depression.

While many measures of mental illness stigma have been developed, few have been validated in Hispanic populations. This study examined the psychometric properties of three stigma measures (Stigma Concerns about Mental Health Care [SCMHC], Social Distance Scale [SDS], and Latino Scale for Antidepressant Stigma [LSAS]) among a depressed, Hispanic sample. Data were collected during baseline assessments for two studies taking place in primary care settings (N = 500). Psychometric and factor validity were tested for each measure. Confirmatory factor analyses indicated adequate model fit, and adequate internal consistency reliability was found for all three measures. Stigma scores significantly differed by education level and gender. Findings from this analysis provide support for the use of the SCMHC, SDS, and LSAS in a depressed, Hispanic population. Assessing barriers to depression treatment, including stigma, are critical in engaging Hispanics in care and eliminating disparities for the population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]