MIGRAINE STIGMA, PAIN PERCEPTION, AND TREATMENT SATISFACTION

Abstract

This study explores the relationship between migraine-related stigma, pain perception, and treatment satisfaction, and examines pain perception as a mediator. Using a correlational design and purposive sampling (N=105), data were collected from hospital outpatients and social media users. Measures included demographic and clinical forms, the Migraine-Related Stigma Scale, the Pain Belief and Perception Inventory, and the Treatment Satisfaction with Medicines Questionnaire. Results showed that stigma was significantly associated with both pain perception (r = .435, p < .01) and treatment satisfaction (r = .420, p < .01). Regression analysis indicated stigma significantly predicted treatment satisfaction (R² = .188), with pain perception partially mediating this relationship. The findings underscore the need to address both stigma and pain perception to improve treatment outcomes for individuals with migraines.