Abstract
BACKGROUND: The Affiliate Stigma Scale measures the internalized stigma experienced by caregivers. Among Asian Indians, having a family member with dementia is sometimes perceived as punishment for past-life sins, underscoring the need for culturally relevant tools for measuring stigma. This study evaluated a shortened, culturally adapted version of the Affiliate Stigma Scale for Asian Indian dementia family caregivers in the United States. METHODS: Surveys were completed by 222 caregivers, recruited through community and social networks. Analyses included descriptive statistics, reliability testing, exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, and construct validity. RESULTS: The original 22-item scale showed poor model fit. Analyses supported a unidimensional 11-item version with good fit indices and excellent reliability. Known-groups validity was supported, with higher stigma scores among female versus male caregivers and among caregivers of South versus North Indian origin. CONCLUSION: This culturally adapted 11-item version is a valid and reliable instrument to assess affiliate stigma in Asian Indian American dementia family caregivers.