Article
Details
Citation
Jahoda A & Markova I (2004) Coping with social stigma: People with intellectual disabilities moving from institutions and family home. Journal of Intellectual Disability Research, 48 (8), pp. 719-729. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2788.2003.00561.x
Abstract
Background: Social stigma and its impact on the life opportunities and emotional well-being of people with intellectual disabilities (IDs) are a subject of both practical and theoretical importance. The disability movement and evolving theories of self, now point to individuals¡¯ ability to develop positive identities and to challenge stigmatizing views and social norms.
Method: This paper presents findings from a phenomenological study of 10 individuals making the transition from their family home to live more independently and 18 individuals moving from a long-stay hospital to live in community housing. It builds on an earlier data set obtained from people living at home with their families and examines: (1) people¡¯s awareness of stigma, and (2) their modes of adaptation to stigma.
Results: The participants all believed that they faced stigmatized treatment and were aware of the stigma associated with ID. They presented a range of views about self in relation to disability and stigma. These views included regarding themselves as part of a minority group who reject prejudice, and attempts to distance themselves from stigmatizing services and from other individuals with IDs.
Conclusions: The findings are discussed in relation to theories of self and the importance of considering psychosocial factors is stressed in clinical work with people who have IDs
Keywords
identity; intellectual disability; selfworth; social comparison; stigma
Journal
Journal of Intellectual Disability Research: Volume 48, Issue 8
Status | Published |
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Publication date | 30/11/2004 |
Publication date online | 19/10/2004 |
Date accepted by journal | 21/07/2003 |
URL | |
Publisher | Blackwell Publishing Ltd |
ISSN | 0964-2633 |
eISSN | 1365-2788 |
People (1)
Emeritus Professor, Psychology