SOC 2070 Chapter Article Reading: Resisting the Stigma of Mental Illness Summary Notes
Document Summary
Relationship between stigmatization and self-regard is negative but only moderate in strength. Probably because those with mental health often resist the stigma. Resistance highlights the personal agency of labeled individuals. Theorists assume that stigmatization inevitable results in low self esteem but the evidence for this is contradictory. Symbolic interactionism suggests that social devaluation produces self devaluation. Classic labeling theory states that we see ourselves through others. Therefore, an undesirable label applied by others is expected to lead to self- stigmatization. Link"s modified labeling theory labeled individuals themselves start a self- fulfilling prophecy mental patients are thought to avoid this through secrecy about their history and withdrawal from interactions with all but close family and friends and educate others about mental illness. The label has negative consequences, attempts to avoid devaluation generate problematic social and economic circumstances that perpetuate risk. Regardless whether the label is internalized it still has negative consequences. Evidence for the link between stigma and self-esteem.
