Mental Illness and Labeling Theory

The stigma associated with mental illness results in discrimination, loss of socioeconomic status, lowered sense of self-worth, and increased symptoms. Labeling theory is an explanatory framework that accounts for these effects. In light of developments in the understanding of the causes and treatment of mental illness, the theory has undergone modification from its original version to show how internalized stigma affects well-being. Recent research integrates modified labeling theory with the reflected appraisals process of identity formation to understand how attitudes toward mental illness affect recovery through their effects on the self-concept. Keywords: deviance; identity; illness; mental health; social control; stigma