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Updated: May 31, 2026

Social Threat-Safety Test Uncovers Psychosocial Stress-Related Phenotypes
Published on: December 15, 2023
Stress and coping with discrimination and stigmatization.
Sophie Berjot1, Nicolas Gillet
1Laboratoire de Psychologie Appliquée, Département de Psychologie, Université de Reims Champagne Ardenne Reims, France.
This review explores how individuals cope with stigmatization and identity threats. It proposes a new model focusing on the devaluing aspect of stigma and identity protection/enhancement motives.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Social Psychology
- Health Psychology
Background:
- Stigmatization and identity threats pose significant challenges to individuals.
- Existing literature provides a foundation for understanding these threats.
- The devaluing aspect of stigma requires specific attention in coping models.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review literature on stigmatization and identity threats.
- To propose a transactional model of coping with identity threats, incorporating stigma's devaluing nature.
- To introduce a new classification of coping strategies based on identity protection and enhancement motives.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of stigmatization and identity threat research.
- Adaptation of Lazarus and Folkman's transactional model of stress and coping.
- Development of a conceptual model for coping with identity threats.
Main Results:
- A proposed model for coping with identity threats, emphasizing stigma's devaluing aspect.
- A refined appraisal phase within the coping process.
- A novel classification of coping strategies linked to motives for protecting or enhancing personal and social identity.
Conclusions:
- The proposed model offers a nuanced understanding of coping with stigmatization.
- Recognizing the devaluing aspect of stigma is crucial for effective coping.
- Coping strategies are motivated by the need to preserve and enhance self-identity.
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