Stigma is a strong feeling of being shamed or disgraced. It can come not only from strangers but also from families, friends and peers. When people are stigmatized, other people’s words and actions cause them to feel ashamed. These words and actions can be violent or discriminatory. When people are stigmatized because of how they identify themselves—by race, ethnicity, gender identification or sexual behavior—that shame can cause significant health problems.
A lot of stigma comes from attitudes about people’s gender identities or sexual behaviors. People who are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT) report experiencing high levels of stigma and discrimination.
“We know from research that stigma adds to negative health effects in many communities, including communities of color, LGBT communities and people with disabilities,” says Sarah Krier, PhD, MPH, research specialist with the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health’s HIV Prevention and Care Project. “It keeps people feeling isolated within the larger community. It prevents people from getting information, seeking support and getting medical care.”
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