What is the purpose of this study?
This research project wants to find out how much people know about epilepsy and how they see those who have it. This includes looking at stereotypes, what kind of jobs and roles people with epilepsy are expected to have, cultural beliefs, personal fears, and whether people avoid those with epilepsy in societies around the world.
Previous research on this topic mainly looked at stigma in one specific country, and they didn't pay much attention to the cultural aspects of how people with epilepsy are stigmatized worldwide. So, this project aims to understand why people with epilepsy are stigmatized in different societies and how it's influenced by individual and cultural factors.
Our team hopes that by figuring out what people know about epilepsy, we can help improve the lives of those who have it. In other words, we want to raise awareness and educate people about epilepsy, which is often unfairly stigmatized. Our ultimate goal is to reduce discrimination against people with epilepsy in societies all over the world.
Why have I been invited to participate in this study?
You are an individual who:
a. Is aged 18 or older
b. Is able to provide informed consent
c. Does not have impaired judgment
What does this study involve?
The study involves this online survey that will take approximately 15 to 20 minutes to complete. The responses provided will be kept confidential, and participants are not required to provide any personal information to access or submit the survey. The survey is designed to collect feedback, thoughts, and personal knowledge in relation to the research topic, in a manner where the participant remains anonymous throughout the survey.
Are there risks and benefits to me in taking part in this study?
A potential risk associated with this research project is the inconvenience to the participants and potential distress as some survey questions may be confronting.
The benefit of this study is to acknowledge stigma in society and make action plans to reduce it, mainly in future generations. This study will provide knowledge as a means to raise awareness of and provide education about epilepsy as a commonly stigmatized disease, with the overall aim to reduce the level of discrimination against the marginalized community of affected individuals in a global society.
How is this study being paid for?
The research project is funded by the Faculty of Science and Health (FOSH) New Staff Development Scheme of Charles Sturt University.
Will taking part in this study (or travelling to) cost me anything, and will I be paid?
Participation in this research will not incur any cost to the participants. There will be no reimbursement provided for participation in the research and it is completely voluntary.
