Abstract
Exposure to stigmatization is a serious complication of mental illness in general, and of schizophrenia in particular. Adopting an action-theory approach, according to which individuals shape their own social environment (Shahar, 2006), we examined the role of four self-concept aspects in patients' perception of exposure to stigmatization: self-esteem level and stability, perception of the self as ill, and self-concept clarity. Out-patients with schizophrenia-spectrum disorder (N = 89) were assessed twice, separated by a six-week interval, as to their symptoms, the above self-concept aspects, and stigmatization. Self-concept clarity was the sole predictor of (a reduction in) perceived exposure to stigmatization, possibly by shielding individuals against the deleterious effects of past discrimination and marginalization.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 663-674 |
Number of pages | 12 |
Journal | Self and Identity |
Volume | 12 |
Issue number | 6 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 1 Nov 2013 |
Keywords
- Schizophrenia
- Self
- Stigmatization
- Stress
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Psychology (all)