Lecture on Social Stigma

Definition

• Social stigma: Extreme disapproval and discrediting of an individual by society.
• Two forms: Social stigma and self-stigma.

Social Stigma

Associated Concepts:

• Stereotypes: Generalized beliefs/cognitions (e.g., mentally ill are violent).
• Prejudices: Negative emotions/affects associated with stereotypes (e.g., fear of mentally ill).
• Discrimination: Behavioral changes due to stereotypes and prejudices (e.g., avoiding living near the mentally ill).

Variability

• Degree of overlap between stereotypes, prejudices, and discrimination is not clear and varies by context.

Examples

• Conditions like mental health, medical issues, sexual orientation, criminality.
• Mental health stigma: assumption that the mentally ill are violent.

Self Stigma

• Internalization: Individual internalizes negative stereotypes, prejudices, and discrimination.
• Consequences: Feelings of rejection, avoidance of society, struggle with condition.
  • E.g., HIV/AIDS patients: Denial of condition, mental health issues like depression, further societal isolation.

Studying Stigma: Concentric Circles Model

1. Self: Individual being stigmatized.
2. Family: Close social group.
3. Society: Wider societal context.
4. External Factors: Media and other societal influences.

Interactions

• Bi-directional relationships: Between self, family, society, media.
• Media Influence: Major source of stigma, often depicts conditions as violent or morally failing.
  • Guidelines for journalists can help reduce stigma.
  • Social media also plays a significant role.

Society

• Interactions include education, employment, health care.
• Impact: Stigmatizing views affect income, healthcare access, and participation.
• Interventions: Legislation and anti-discrimination laws.

Family

• Internal and external stigma: Family may be shunned by society and may shun the individual.
• Isolation: Stigmatized members often hidden or kept secret.
  • Impact: Damages personal and intimate relationships.
  • Interventions: Therapy and education.

Individual

• Internalization of stigma: Leads to avoidance, denial of condition, mental health issues.
  • Interventions: Education, resources, support groups to reduce isolation and provide support.