The Mediating Effects of Perceived Social Support and Shame on Psychological Distress and their Dimensions among Liberian Refugees in Nigeria

Abstract

Abstract PURPOSE: Liberian refugees have lived in Nigeria since the 1990s experiencing unemployment, discrimination, stigmatization, and emotional and psychological challenges. Perceived social support (PSS) is a crucial cognitive factor that mediates the relationship between the experience of shame and psychological distress. However, there is a paucity of literature on the mediating effects of PSS and shame on psychological distress and their domain-specificities among Liberian refugees. In closing these knowledge gaps, this study aimed to examine the mediating effect of PSS and shame on psychological distress and their domain-specificities among Liberian refugees in Nigeria. METHODS: Using a quantitative research approach, we collected data through questionnaires from 520 participants, including 334 males and 186 females, in the refugee camp in Nigeria. RESULTS: Our findings revealed partial mediation between shame and psychological distress. The dimension of PSS was negatively associated with the dimensions of psychological distress and shame, while the dimension of shame was positively related to the dimension of psychological distress. In addition, behavior shame was positively related to the dimensions of PSS. However, family support failed to associate with anxiety and bodily shame. CONCLUSIONS: shame is a pathological social emotion that increases psychological distress without the presence of PSS. However, PSS has a potential influence in decreasing psychological distress and shame. This study's finding aligns with the IFS theory that culminated in the need for connected relationships with Family, friends, and significant others to manage the shameful parts and psychological distress.