Facial Disfiguration

Question 1

What is meant by discreditable disfigurement?

Answer 1

not known about by the many people with whom the person with the stigma comes into contact with everyday, only known by the person and few close intimates e.g. masectomy
a.k.a. hidden conditions

Question 2

What is meant by discrediting disfigurement?

Answer 2

cannot be hidden from other people because it is obvious and visible. People respond to the stigma rather than the person. E.g. obesity
a.k.a. overt conditions

Question 3

What is the difference between primary and secondary deviation?

Answer 3

Primary deviation - the fact of biological, physical or social difference
Secondary deviation - the social response of the individual and others to the difference

Question 4

What is enacted stigma?

Answer 4

The reactions of others - pity, disgust, bullying etc.

Question 5

What is felt stigma?

Answer 5

Stigma felt by the person themselves - loss of self esteem, fear of rejection, withdrawal, depression etc.

Question 6

What is a cleft lip/palate?

Answer 6

Gap or split in the upper lip, palate or both.
Occurs due to failure of fusion of the maxillary and medial nasal processes in the developing foetus.
Can cause speech defects depending on severity.

Question 7

What psychological problems can develop due to stigma?

Answer 7

Social - making friends, developing close relationships, success in job interviews
Times of change - new school, new job, moving house

Question 8

What are the individual differences in coping?

Answer 8

Either neuroticism OR extraversion.

Question 9

What support mechanisms are there to combat stigma?

Answer 9

Family support
Coping skills for teasing, rejection etc
Social skills training
Anticipating and understanding reactions of others

Question 10

What groups are at risk of stigma?

Answer 10

Elderly
Learning disabled
Women
The poor
Ethnic groups