Theories of stigma

Theories of stigma explore why people are labeled or judged negatively. One common idea is that stigma arises from societal fears, misconceptions, or stereotypes about certain groups or conditions. Another theory suggests stigma is a way for society to distance itself from what it views as undesirable, often based on differences in race, health, or behavior. Additionally, some theories highlight that stigma can be internal, where individuals believe negative things about themselves due to societal attitudes. Overall, these theories help us understand how stigma affects individuals and can lead to discrimination, social exclusion, and emotional distress.