Stigmatized

Stigmatized is an adjective used to describe individuals or groups who are subjected to social stigma—an attribute that leads others to devalue or marginalize them. Stigma can attach to visible characteristics, health conditions, behaviors, or affiliations, such as mental illness, disability, poverty, sexual orientation, race, religion, or criminal history. The term stems from stigma meaning a marking or brand, with modern sociological use popularized by Erving Goffman in his 1963 work on stigma and identity.

In sociology, stigma involves labeling, stereotyping, separation, status loss, and discrimination. Researchers distinguish enacted stigma (antagonistic actions toward members of a stigmatized group) from felt or internalized stigma (the individual's own sense of devaluation). The intersection of power, culture, and norms shapes which attributes become stigmatized and how strongly stigma is experienced.

Stigmatization can lead to adverse outcomes, including social exclusion, reduced access to education, housing, employment, and healthcare, and poorer mental or physical health. Internalized stigma may lower self-esteem and hinder help-seeking or treatment adherence.

Stigmatized status can fluctuate across contexts and time; attitudes change with social movements, policy interventions, and contact across groups. Strategies to reduce stigma include public education, contact-based initiatives that promote positive interactions, and policies that protect civil rights. Individuals may cope through disclosure decisions, social support, or strategies to manage identity.