Stigmatisation

Stigmatisation refers to the process by which an individual or group is marked, discredited, and rejected by others. This often occurs because of a particular characteristic or attribute that deviates from societal norms or expectations. These characteristics can be diverse, including physical differences, mental health conditions, social status, or past behaviors. The core of stigmatisation lies in the negative labelling and stereotyping of the stigmatised group.

Once stigmatised, individuals may experience prejudice and discrimination in various aspects of their lives, such as employment, housing, education, and social relationships. This can lead to feelings of shame, isolation, and lowered self-esteem. The process of stigmatisation is often perpetuated by social attitudes, media portrayals, and institutional practices that reinforce negative stereotypes. It can create significant barriers for individuals to fully participate in society and can have long-lasting psychological and social consequences. Efforts to combat stigmatisation typically focus on education, awareness campaigns, and promoting inclusive attitudes and policies.