Background
To understand why in particular mental illness is stigmatized in our society it is helpful to take a look at the background of mental illness stigma. It is important to realize the presence of common myths, see how stigma of mental illness has been shaped by history as well as looking at theoretical explanations.
Learn about common myths surrounding mental illness and discover the facts.
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History
Mental illness has been a part of the human condition for as long as we have existed. Treatment of it and
pubic views have changed throughout time, from Ancient and Medieval period, Renaissance and Enlightenment
to our Modern Period. Despite the increased scientific knowledge of mental disorders, stigma still remains present,
but has now taken on a less explicit form.
pubic views have changed throughout time, from Ancient and Medieval period, Renaissance and Enlightenment
to our Modern Period. Despite the increased scientific knowledge of mental disorders, stigma still remains present,
but has now taken on a less explicit form.
Processes of stigma
There are several theories and explanations for what creates and maintains the process of stigma. It can occur
at individual level, through our mental representations, through social processes such as labeling and creation of
in-group and out-group categories as well as through cultural and structural processes in our society, such as
policies and legislations.
at individual level, through our mental representations, through social processes such as labeling and creation of
in-group and out-group categories as well as through cultural and structural processes in our society, such as
policies and legislations.