Author: Lauren

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SOCIAL EDUCATION ON

Get educated on social stigma. Without education on the dangers, anyone could unintentionally (or intentionally) be harming another’s life.
But just knowing isn’t enough, action must be taken. We must stand up for those individuals and give them their voices back. Otherwise, we are adding to the stigma and the individual’s struggle with it.

STIGMA

DEFINING A SOCIAL ISSUE: Social stigma is discriminating and judging someone, to an extreme extent, based on distinctive characteristics (social and cultural) that differ from other members of society.

HSP 315

Lauren Milne

Fall 2012

Presented by Lauren Milne

Casual Effect of Stigma

Self Perception
Individuals see themselves as inferior and start to define themselves as the negative stereotypes being placed on them by others.
Life Chances
Suicide rates increase and violence toward others becomes more of a possibility when stigma attaches itself to an individual.
Relationships
Individuals have a harder time relating to others. Stigma amplifies negativity and hides positivity, so the individual becomes easily provoked and suspicious of others.
Ability to improve
Because of the effects listed above, individuals suffering from stigma have a harder time improving their livelihood. More issues result and suffering becomes an impairment to the individual’s ability to function in day to day life.

Limitations of Stigma
Stigma only occurs when a majority group negatively stereotypes a single individual or group that is a minority.
Even then, stigma causes limitations in emotional development to its victims.
Impact of Stigma
Stigma, because it’s so powerful, can destroy an entire culture.
In the 60s to current time, we’ve seen this with the creation of the Crips and Bloods gang violence in Los Angeles.
We see it in schools with cyber-bullying.
Just because it’s popular, doesn’t make it right.
HOW TO HELP
Support Groups
Outreach Programs
Advocating against Stigma
Being an Example

Lauren Milne