Structural stigma: Research evidence and implications for psychological science.

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Sociology
• Public Health

Background:

• Psychological research traditionally focuses on individual stigma experiences and microlevel interactions.
• Criticism exists regarding the limited attention to structural factors in stigma research.
• Structural stigma involves societal-level conditions, norms, and policies impacting stigmatized populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• Introduce and define the emerging field of structural stigma research.
• Review evidence on the psychological and health impacts of structural stigma.
• Advocate for greater attention to structural stigma within psychological science.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of emerging evidence on structural stigma.
• Analysis of studies examining structural stigma related to mental illness and sexual orientation.
• Synthesis of research on psychological processes and health outcomes.

Main Results:

• Structural stigma directly and synergistically affects psychological stigma processes like concealment and rejection sensitivity.
• It moderates the effectiveness of psychological interventions.
• Structural stigma contributes to adverse health outcomes, including stress dysregulation and premature mortality, exacerbating health inequalities.

Conclusions:

• Structural stigma is an underrecognized mechanism driving health disparities.
• Psychological scientists should prioritize understanding and addressing structural stigma.
• Integrating structural stigma into research is crucial for reducing its negative effects.