Several theories have been developed in order to explain why certain groups become targets for social exclusion and discrimination. Social identity theory suggests that people form interpersonal connections around collective identities; because it is easier for an individual make generalizations about members sharing a common label than making distinctions between each member individually, this often leads to prejudice against certain groups (Tajfel & Turner 1979). Symbolic interactionism proposes that relationships between two parties are shaped by how each party perceives themselves in relation to one another; when someone is seen as different – particularly if they possess characteristics considered socially undesirable – they will likely be met with disdainful behavior from others within their community (Blumer 1969). Finally labeling theory argues that when someone is labeled by society as deviant – either through official institutionalization such as prison sentences or unofficial processes like gossip – this label will shape how other members perceive them and thus determine their place within a given social context (Becker 1963).

In recent years there has been increased attention paid towards how the media portrays individuals with psychiatric disorders. While there has been some progress made towards increasing awareness regarding various forms of serious mental illness such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder films and television shows continue depict characters displaying these conditions only in extreme scenarios without any acknowledgement that persons living with these diagnoses can lead successful lives outside institutional settings. This distorted representation reinforces existing stigmas rather than providing helpful education about treatments available for such conditions which could otherwise help decrease prejudicial attitudes against affected populations ((Corrigan et al., 2016)).

Friends and family members play an important role when it comes supporting loved ones coping with major life changes related to diagnosis and treatment plans. Depending on the severity of symptoms experienced by afflicted persons it may be difficult for them take full responsibility over day-to-day activities like completing chores around the house managing finances etc.; therefore close relatives must step up provide emotional support guidance throughout whole recovery process show empathy understanding instead judgmental criticism way promote positive outlook goals establish healthy environment home ((Sarris & Kisely 2018)). Accessing appropriate care resources such networks can significantly reduce duration time spent dealing effects accompanying stigma allow sufferers focus more recovery rather facing potential scrutiny friends peers trying understand condition better ((Heinzelmann & Sorg 2017)).

References:

American Psychiatric Association Committee on Stigma and Public Education(2013)Stigma and its Consequences for Mental Illness: Report of APA  Stigma and Public Education Washington DC American Psychiatric Association Becker Howard Saul(1963)”Outsiders Studies Deviance” Free Press NewYork Blumer Herbert(1969)Symbolic Interactionism Perspective Method Prentice Hall Englewood Cliffs NJ Corrigan Patrick W Donaldson Maria Kubiak Mark Slade Elizabeth Watson Ann Crowley Stephen MuhonenT racy Green Kristen Campbell(2016)”Influence Media Depiction Mental illness Attitudes Toward Individuals Mental Disorders United States England” Psychologic alServices1336‐ 1346 Heinzel mann Bettina SorgChristiane(2017)”Expectations Mental Health Care Effective Patient‐Provider Communication Patients’ Perspectives”FamPract3433‐ 43 Mental Health America[MHA](2020)Fact Sheet Understanding Stigma National Institute of Mental Health[NIMH](2021)Stigma Sarris Julian Kisely SteveR.(2018)”Family Concerns Significant Adults Managing Psychosis Recovery Process Systematic Review” Community Ment HealthJ544‐ 59 Tajfel Henri TurnerJohn C.(1979)Social Identity Theory Cognitive Group Processes Academic Press London UK