Stigma

ch. 27 week 1

Stigma

“Negative attitudes that mark a person as different and result in discrimination,”
o Stereotypes and prejudices
o Discrimination

An attribute of the social environment NOT the person

Theories of Stigma: Labeling Theory

Based in cultural values

Influenced by those in power

People experience stigma in 3 stages

1. Realization of stigma

2. Development of coping skills

3. Learning to “pass”

Limitations: assumes people experience stigma are passive actors in the process

Theories of Stigma: Normalization Theory

The process of stigmatization and discrimination has become normal

Behavior → Label → Behavior

Limitations: implies that people who are marginalized should change to fit into society, de- emphasizes society’s role

Theories of Stigma: Social Identity Theory

Our identities are shaped by the groups we belong to and our interactions with society
• We perceive our own groups more favorably
•Limitations: Ideas about in-groups and out-groups are not supported by research
- Reductionistic views on human behavior

Public Stigma

“The negative beliefs that the general population holds about people with
mental illness,” (p. 971)
o May also see this referred to as social/societal stigma

Cognitive, Affective, Behavioral

Structural Stigma

Discrimination that occurs when society and societal institutions operate in ways that weave inequities and injustices into their laws, policies, or practices

May restrict opportunities for people with mental illness

• employment

• housing

Stigma by Association

Stigma that can occur when family members and friends of the person with the stigmatized condition also feel the devaluation of being stigmatized

• experiencing judgement for having relation w people w MH, leading to → loss of social support, status, and respect

Self Stigma

The acceptance and internalization of negative stereotypes by individuals w stigmatizing conditions

May lead to → distress, exacerbated symptoms, poor self worth, maladaptive behaviors, limited pursuit of recovery goals

Health Professional Stigma

MH professionals can sustain stigma towards people w Mental illness

Can lead to → lower quality of care

Impact sof Stigma

Barrier to seeking MH care

Hesitate to disclose diagnose

Sanism

Form of discrimination and oppression against people who are perceived as mentally ill

Ideological, institutional, interpersonal, and internalized oppression

Assessment Measures

1. Self Stigma of Mental Illness Scale

2. Internalized Stigma of Mental Illness

3. Attitudes of Mental Illness Questionnaire

4. Opening Minds Stigma Scales for Health Care Providers

Language

Should be person-centered, non-stigmatizing, be morally neutral, and avoid
over-generalizations