A dual-process model of reactions to perceived stigma.
The authors propose a theoretical model of individual psychological reactions to perceived stigma. This model suggests that 2 psychological systems may be involved in reactions to stigma across a variety of social contexts. One system is primarily reflexive, or associative, whereas the other is rule based, or reflective. This model assumes a temporal pattern of reactions to the stigmatized, such that initial reactions are governed by the reflexive system, whereas subsequent reactions or "adjustments" are governed by the rule-based system. Support for this model was found in 2 studies. Both studies examined participants' moment-by-moment approach-avoidance reactions to the stigmatized. The 1st involved participants' reactions to persons with HIV/AIDS, and the 2nd, participants' reactions to 15 different stigmatizing conditions.
Pryor
John B
JB
Department of Psychology, Illinois State University, Normal, IL, USA. pryor@ilstu.edu
Reeder
Glenn D
GD
Yeadon
Christopher
C
Hesson-McLnnis
Matthew
M
D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008297:Male; D011582:Psychological Theory; D011584:Psychology / Q000379:methods*; D012938:Social Perception; D013240:Stereotyping