What is the Origin of Social Stigma?

The term was introduced into sociology by Erving Goffman to describe the process by which a person is disqualified from full social acceptance due to an attribute. In medicine, it is a critical public health and mental health concern, recognizing that societal judgment can be as debilitating as the physical symptoms of a condition. It underscores the need for compassionate, non-judgemental clinical care.

What is the Mechanism of Social Stigma?

Social stigma operates through internalized shame, perceived judgment from others, and systemic discrimination in healthcare or employment settings. For hormonal conditions, this often involves the misattribution of symptoms—like weight gain or mood swings—to a lack of willpower rather than a biological imbalance. The psychological stress resulting from this stigma can further disrupt the HPA axis, creating a negative feedback loop that exacerbates the underlying hormonal disorder and worsens patient outcomes.

Social Stigma

Meaning

The negative attitudes, beliefs, and discriminatory behaviors directed towards individuals or groups based on a distinguishing characteristic, such as a medical condition, physical appearance, or lifestyle choice. In the context of hormonal health, this often manifests as shame, isolation, or prejudice related to conditions like infertility, obesity, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), or the use of hormone replacement therapy. This psychosocial factor can significantly impede treatment adherence and well-being.