Using the “New Directions” to Move Media Viewers in the Right Directions

Great concern exists about the marginalization of stigmatized groups in the United States (Link & Phelan, 2013). Stigma involves the severe social disapproval of a person based solely on possession of unique features or characteristics that set them apart from others in society (Goffman, 1990). Numerous negative outcomes are associated with stigma, including stereotyping, neglect, devalued social identity, discrimination, and prejudice (Miller & Kaiser, 2001).