stigmatizing

Stigmatizing is the act or process of applying stigma to individuals or groups, treating them as socially devalued based on perceived differences such as health status, disability, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or other attributes. Stigma refers to the social mark or set of negative beliefs; stigmatization is the action of labeling, stereotyping, and separating people, often leading to discrimination and reduced social opportunities.

Stigmatization is usually rooted in cultural norms and power relations, and can be intentional or unintentional. The mechanisms include labeling, stereotyping, social distancing, and unequal access to resources, which can result in status loss and discrimination across domains like employment, housing, education, and healthcare.

Contexts and examples: mental illness, infectious diseases, disabilities, obesity, race or ethnicity, gender and sexual minority status. In practice, stigmatization can involve harsh language, social exclusion, or systemic barriers. The consequences for individuals include shame, concealment of identities, avoidance of services, mental distress, and poorer health or economic outcomes. For society, stigmatization can perpetuate inequality and hinder public health responses.

Mitigation: reducing stigmatization requires education, contact with affected groups, language reforms (such as careful terminology where appropriate), media guidelines, and policies that protect against discrimination. Effective strategies often involve empowering affected communities, ensuring confidential and respectful care, and addressing root causes such as misinformation and structural inequality.