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Through the viewfinder: Positive Exposure a year later.
Erica J Sutton1, Lauren Rosapep, Karen Ball
1New Women's College Hospital, and Department of Public Health Sciences and Joint Centre for Bioethics, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Summary
Positive Exposure uses photography to challenge stigma and improve self-esteem in individuals with genetic conditions, particularly craniofacial differences. The program fosters a lasting, life-promoting experience, enhancing perceptions of inner and outer beauty.
Area of Science:
- Medical Sociology
- Psychology
- Genetics
Background:
- Societal biases and stereotypes often marginalize individuals with genetic variations.
- Craniofacial differences can lead to significant social stigma and impact self-perception.
- Positive Exposure aims to counteract these negative perceptions through artistic expression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the lived experiences of individuals with craniofacial differences participating in a Positive Exposure photo-shoot.
- To assess the impact of the photo-shoot on self-esteem, hopefulness, and perceptions of stigma.
- To understand the enduring effects of the Positive Exposure program on participants' self-image.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative case studies of four individuals with craniofacial differences.
- Personal reflections gathered one year after participation in a Positive Exposure photo-shoot.
- Interviews focused on self-esteem, stigma, hopefulness, and the photography experience.
Main Results:
- Participants described the photo-shoot as a lasting and life-promoting experience.
- The photographer, Rick Guidotti, played an integral role in participants' personal awakening.
- Positive Exposure facilitated a renewed identification of inner and outer beauty, boosting self-esteem and self-image.
Conclusions:
- Positive Exposure serves as a sustainable intervention for enhancing self-esteem and self-image in individuals with genetic conditions.
- The program effectively challenges social biases and broadens societal perceptions of human beauty and spirit.
- Artistic engagement, like photography, can be a powerful tool for personal empowerment and combating stigma.
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