The Stigma: Notes on the Management of Spoiled Identity

"The Stigma: Notes on the Management of Spoiled Identity" is a sociological essay by Erving Goffman that examines how individuals with socially discredited identities manage their self-image. When someone is stigmatized—due to characteristics like mental illness, disability, or past mistakes—they may experience social rejection or discrimination. To cope, they often conceal their stigma, hide it from others, or try to control how it’s perceived. Goffman explores the strategies people use to navigate social interactions and protect their dignity, emphasizing the importance of understanding and empathy towards those managing a “spoiled” or stigmatized identity.