Understanding the Nature of Stigma Communication Associated With Mental Illness in Africa: A Focus on Cultural Beliefsand Stereotypes
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| source www.pbs.org |
Besides health and social costs, mentally ill, often, are also
victims of stigma and discrimination, among many communities in Africa.
Cultural beliefs, stereotypes are some of the social constructions used to
perpetuate mental illness stigma.
The purpose of this study was to describe the nature of stigma
communication associated with mental illness, beliefs and stereotypes
underpinning mental illness stigma. Generally, the findings indicate nature of
mental illness stigma communication is an intersection of stigma messages,
cultural beliefs, and stereotypes associated with mental illness.
Cultural beliefs associated with mental illness are inextricably
intertwined with the perceived causes of mental illness (which include curses,
witchcraft, cultural misdemeanor, and possession by spirits or demons).
Symptoms of mental illness (mainly aggression and nudity) mark the mentally ill
as different and expose them to labeling by the rest of the community.
Generally, the mentally ill are stereotyped as aggressive, symbol
of shame, and unpredictable.
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