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Stigmatization, scapegoating and discrimination in sexually transmitted diseases: Overcoming 'them' and 'us'

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  • Gilmore, Norbert
  • Somerville, Margaret A.

Abstract

It is recognized that AIDS involves multiple epidemics. As well as an epidemic of HIV, we are experiencing epidemics of fear and of stigmatization, scapegoating and discrimination associated with AIDS. In this paper, we investigate the nature of these reactions and the links between them. In doing so, we identify some of their causes. We likewise investigate counter-reactions, pre-eminent among which is the promotion of concepts of respect for persons and for human rights. We also examine the 'tools' used to elicit and manifest both these reactions and counter-reactions. In all cases, these 'tools' include choice of language--especially in the form of metaphor and rhetoric--and the use of symbolism. We conclude that in order to deal humanely and compassionately with AIDS and persons with AIDS, and, ultimately, to protect society (including, the fundamental principles and rules on which it is based), a primary requirement is to recognize that we are all living with AIDS, whether infected or affected by it; that is, in the context of AIDS, it is imperative that we overcome any divisions into 'them' and 'us'.

Suggested Citation

  • Gilmore, Norbert & Somerville, Margaret A., 1994. "Stigmatization, scapegoating and discrimination in sexually transmitted diseases: Overcoming 'them' and 'us'," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 39(9), pages 1339-1358, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:socmed:v:39:y:1994:i:9:p:1339-1358
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    Cited by:

    1. Mak, Winnie W.S. & Mo, Phoenix K.H. & Cheung, Rebecca Y.M. & Woo, Jean & Cheung, Fanny M. & Lee, Dominic, 2006. "Comparative stigma of HIV/AIDS, SARS, and Tuberculosis in Hong Kong," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 63(7), pages 1912-1922, October.
    2. Shalini Bharat, 2000. "Perception of AIDS in Mumbai: A Study of Low Income Communities," Psychology and Developing Societies, , vol. 12(1), pages 43-65, March.
    3. Bond, Virginia & Chase, Elaine & Aggleton, Peter, 2002. "Stigma, HIV/AIDS and prevention of mother-to-child transmission in Zambia," Evaluation and Program Planning, Elsevier, vol. 25(4), pages 347-356, November.
    4. Fei Teng & Xijing Wang & Jiaxin Shi & Zhansheng Chen & Qianying Huang & Wanrong Cheng, 2021. "Psychosomatic Symptoms and Neuroticism following COVID-19: The Role of Online Aggression toward a Stigmatized Group," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(16), pages 1-16, August.
    5. Wallis, Patrick & Nerlich, Brigitte, 2005. "Disease metaphors in new epidemics: the UK media framing of the 2003 SARS epidemic," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 60(11), pages 2629-2639, June.
    6. Denis-Ramirez, Elise & Sørensen, Katrine Holmegaard & Skovdal, Morten, 2017. "In the midst of a ‘perfect storm’: Unpacking the causes and consequences of Ebola-related stigma for children orphaned by Ebola in Sierra Leone," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 73(C), pages 445-453.

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