Health professionals as stigmatizers and destigmatizers of diseases: alcoholism and leprosy as examples

Two disease entities are used for the analysis of stigmatization processes within the health care system. It is shown how overall cultural norms, specific professional role interpretations and certain characteristics of the disease are contributory factors. Cultural norms of devaluating persons with disabilities are considered. The relative power of the medical profession within the health care system is assessed in order to evaluate their potentially stigmatizing impact. Previously formulated theoretical concepts and findings of empirical studies provide the overall framework for the discussion. The conclusions include implications which might lead to the improvement of treatment and rehabilitation of currently stigmatizing diseases.