The effect of stigma on individuals before and after diagnosis

Question 1

Stigmatising can still happen today, what is stigma ?

Answer 1

Relates to how we think about certain things; things that make us feel uneasy or distressed. This is how some people perceive MHP. This means there is a strong cognitive element to stigma.

Question 2

Why is cognitive factors like stigma difficult to investigate ?

Answer 2

We cannot observe the mind. However, psychologists can measure attitudes using self report method. This gives us some idea of how people think and feel

Question 3

Before diagnosis

Answer 3

Stigma attached to MHP is a negative stereotype but can be triggered when someone sees or hears behaviour they consider abnormal. An individual with a developing MHP may be perceived in negative ways like labelled weirdo or similar.

Question 4

After diagnosis

Answer 4

For some, disorders may be associated with their own negative stereotype. For example, a person with depression may be stereotypes to be ‘suicidal’. Individuals constantly being labelled in this way and subject to stigma are at risk of self-fulfilling prophecy.