Table 5 Exploratory factor analysis of the EMIC (n = 245)

5 Have less respect for you because of your problems

7 The others avoid you

9 The colleagues and neighbors think less of your family

8 Some people refuse to visit you

4 Feel ashamed or embarrassed

12 makes it difficult for family members to get married

6 The contact might have bad effects on others

15 People think that you also have other health problems

10 Cause problems for the children

14 Stay away from work or social groups

3 Reduce the pride or self-respect

11 Problem in getting married and marriage

13 asked to stay away from social groups

1 Keep people from knowing about the disability

2 Discuss the problem with others