Introduction
Erving Goff man defines a stigma as that difference between society’s expectations of one’s identity and the actual identity that one belongs based on assumptions about normal attributes and abnormal attributes. The latter are usually negative ones that cause one to be perceived as possessing a weaker social identity.
Visibility of the stigma and whether some may pass unnoticed
The latter author believes that there are three major categories of stigma depending on the level of visibility of that stigma; physical deformities, racial/ religious/ tribal stigmas, and personal trait deviations. The most prominent ones are the physical deformities as these are seen at first sight. Some of the groups that fall in this category include epileptics, lepers, cleft lip citizens, paraplegics, the blind, hunchbacks, and many others. The latter individuals have no control over the exposure of their stigma and are the ones who are most likely to be subjected to work-related tensions brought on by their disability. It is unlikely that the latter group could pass unnoticed either in the workplace or in social gatherings. (Blaine 38)
The second category is composed of personality trait deviants such as homosexuals, prostitutes, suicidal attempts, being extremely domineering, possessing unnatural passions such as being a rapist, etc. More often than not, such stigmas may go unnoticed but may be revealed after prolonged interaction with the said person. In this case, the stigmatized person has some degree of control over people’s knowledge of his /her negative attributes. However, the latter situation may not always occur as the trait may simply reveal itself. Aside from that, such groups often spend their time concealing their trait at the workplace.
The last category is composed of tribal stigma in which different individuals are considered deviants based on their race, religion, or tribe. Such an attribute is highly visible and often very difficult to conceal as it can be seen at first glance. One of how people cope with this stigma is by adapting to the common race/ religion to fit in.
Management tactics useful for each
For overt stigmas, one of the most appropriate ways of coping with these stigmas is by mastering the stigmatized area. For example, the deaf may understand lip reading to be able to communicate with their colleagues. This group can embrace their trait and use them to alter their personalities for the better.
In personality trait stigma, it is often common to find that the stigmatized persons have risen beyond their labels and proved themselves worthy of their positions at work or in society as a whole. Also, most of them improvise and eventually learn how to live with their prevailing conditions at any one time.
The tribally stigmatized often form groups or associations in which they can share their experiences and strengthen one another in the face of discrimination. This causes some of them to move on with their lives relatively well. (Goffman 124)
Groups that may have a problem securing work
It may be very problematic for individuals with external traits to get work. This is especially the case when their physical disability may be perceived as an impediment to their work. For example, a paraplegic may not get a job as a factory assembly worker because of the nature of his anatomy. People with certain personality traits may also find it difficult to get employment. For instance, a former criminal or a prostitute may not be hired easily as this may be seen as an impediment to work relations.
Stigmas that are cruel and unwarranted
Some of the stigmas that have solicited a lot of cruelty include the racial or tribal ones in which the stigmatized have been subjected to actual bodily harm. Additionally, some personality traits such as homosexuality have also caused undue cruelty.
Role of area support groups in addressing the problem of stigma
The Association for Retarded Citizens in various states plays a tremendous role n assisting mentally disabled persons. They often carry out educational campaigns to educate other members of society about retarded citizens. Also, they normally empower mentally retarded individuals by teaching them coping skills. Similarly, the Community Amputee support groups also carry out advocacy work, research, and education on amputated individuals. It also provides them with technological and psychological support for day-to-day living. Lastly, Overeaters anonymous usually strengthens their members by discussing their self-esteem issues and helping them overcome such stigma. (Blaine 97)
Conclusion
Stigmatization in many ways impedes development at work and in society as a whole. It takes deliberate effort for individuals to step outside themselves and understand that one’s social identity should not be defined by a certain trait that they possessits.
Works cited
Goffman, Erving. Stigma: Notes on management of spoiled identity. New York: Prentice Hall Publishers. 1963.
Blaine, Bruce. Understanding Diversity. Chicago: Sage publishers. 2007.