Stigmareducering

Stigmareducering, or stigma reduction, is the set of strategies and activities aimed at lowering negative attitudes, prejudice, and discrimination toward a target group. In Swedish contexts, stigmareducering is used to describe efforts addressing stigma related to health conditions (such as mental illness, HIV, or addiction), sexual orientation, disability, or ethnicity. The objective is to increase social inclusion, improve access to care, and protect the rights of the individuals affected.

Core approaches include education to correct misinformation; contact interventions that facilitate positive interactions between the general public and members of stigmatized groups; and media, language, and policy changes that promote respectful representations and equal treatment. Frameworks such as the Health Stigma and Discrimination Framework guide analysis of how stigma operates through drivers, mechanisms, and outcomes, and help plan interventions.

Evidence suggests that contact-based strategies often produce larger and longer-lasting reductions in prejudicial attitudes than education alone, especially when contact is voluntary, meaningful, and accompanied by supportive settings. Multi-component programs that combine education, contact, and policy change tend to be more effective. Measuring impact typically relies on attitude scales, behavior indicators, and service access metrics; results vary by culture, setting, and target group.

Stigmareducering is implemented in healthcare, schools, workplaces, and media campaigns, with attention to cultural context and intersectionality. Challenges include persistent structural stigma, resource limitations, and the risk of backfire if programs are not inclusive or respectful. Ongoing evaluation and involvement of affected communities are recommended to ensure lasting improvements in inclusion and rights.