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Dimensions and process of stigmatization in leprosy
1Ghana Leprosy Service, Cape Coast, Ghana.
Leprosy Review
|February 3, 1999
Summary
Stigma surrounding leprosy, a disfiguring disease, hinders its elimination. This paper models the stigmatization process in two stages: cognitive dimensions leading to emotional responses, then social devaluation and negative behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Medical Sociology
- Public Health
- Dermatology
Background:
- Leprosy (Hansen's disease) has historically caused fear due to deformities and disabilities.
- The World Health Assembly aimed to eliminate leprosy by 2000, but stigma remains a significant barrier.
- Stigma impacts all facets of leprosy control efforts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a model detailing the process of stigmatization in leprosy.
- To understand the psychological and social mechanisms driving leprosy stigma.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual modeling of the stigmatization process.
- Analysis of cognitive and affective dimensions contributing to social devaluation.
Main Results:
- The stigmatization process is divided into two stages.
- Stage 1: Leprosy's cognitive aspects trigger affective responses.
- Stage 2: Affective responses lead to social devaluation and negative behaviors towards patients.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the stages of stigmatization is crucial for developing targeted interventions.
- Addressing cognitive and affective factors can mitigate social devaluation and negative behaviors.
- Reducing stigma is essential for effective leprosy control and elimination efforts.