The term "public stigma" refers to the negative reaction of society towards stigmatized individuals based on attitudes or beliefs. It can result in the exclusion of people with undesirable attributes and is a result of social classification based on what is seen as normal. Stigma can stem from differences in gender, social classes, or ethnicity, and can be reflected in the views and behaviors of individuals or organizations. Disability-based discrimination is a form of stigma. 

Public Stigma

Self-stigma refers to when people with disabilities internalize prejudices against them, leading to a lack of confidence and lowered self-esteem. This may manifest as hiding conditions, avoiding social activities, refusing to access disability services, or distancing from stigmatized people.

Self-stigma

Courtesy stigma is the prejudice or discrimination experienced by people who are closely associated with someone who has a stigmatized condition, such as a disability or mental illness. It reflects how stigma can extend beyond the individual to family members, friends, or caregivers, based on their connection to the stigmatized person.

Courtesy Stigma 

- Public stigma 
- Self-stigma
- Courtesy stigma

Arizona State University

The article reviews how individuals with ADHD experience public stigma, self-stigma, and courtesy stigma, with a particular focus on the harmful effects of internalizing negative societal attitudes. It explains that skepticism toward ADHD diagnoses and treatments—especially medication—can lead people with ADHD to hide their condition, reject support, and feel ashamed of their needs. This stigma, especially when internalized, negatively impacts self-esteem, treatment adherence, and overall quality of life.

Stigma in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder 

Mueller, Anna K et al. “Stigma in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.” Attention deficit and hyperactivity disorders vol. 4,3 (2012): 101-14. doi:10.1007/s12402-012-0085-3

Stigma in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Reference

Three Types of Stigma 

One of the studies mentioned supports the idea that neither diagnostic labeling itself nor medicinal disclosure elicit greater stigmatizing tendencies of undiagnosed fellows, however when confronted later with actual exposure to ADHD symptoms, negative effects were found for healthy participants. Participants may want to report that they aren't against any specific labels or medications, but in reality they act differently.

Social Desirability Bias in Measuring Stigmatized Attitudes Towards People with ADHD 

Cultural distrust toward ADHD treatment is rooted in skepticism about both the diagnosis and the use of stimulant medication. Media narratives often portray ADHD as overdiagnosed, trivialized, or caused by poor parenting, reinforcing the idea that it is not a “real” condition. These depictions contribute to a broader public perception that medication use is unnecessary, dangerous, or simply a shortcut to improved performance.

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