A qualitative exploration of stigma experience and inclusion among adults with mild to moderate intellectual disability in an Indonesian context.

BACKGROUND

People with intellectual disability are among the most stigmatised groups in society. There is a paucity of studies reporting on how stigma is experienced in low- and middle-income countries. This study aims to explore the experience of stigma among adults with mild/moderate intellectual disability and the extent of their inclusion in Indonesian society.

METHOD: Fifteen adults with mild/moderate intellectual disability were purposively recruited from three service providers and were interviewed using a semi-structured interview schedule. The data were analysed using thematic analysis.

RESULTS

The findings suggest that adults with intellectual disability experience stigma in multiple settings (family, school, community), have limited access to social activities, and internalised the experienced stigma.

CONCLUSION

This study adds to the international understanding of stigma experienced by adults with mild/moderate intellectual disability in daily life and their inclusion in society in a middle-income country.