Social Stigma and Self: A Psycho-social Study of People with Visual Impairment

Stigmatization of persons with disabilities has been an adverse reality existing across societies for centuries. In recent years, the Government of India and other non-governmental organizations have attempted to alleviate the negative connotation attached to the disability through various schemes and reservations. The present study has made an effort to explore the social stigmatization of people with visual impairment and its relationship with the constructs of self. The research examined social stigma, self-concept, self-esteem, self-efficacy, life orientation, and hope of 30 visually disabled persons living in Delhi-NCR. Data was analysed and the results revealed that the selfconcept, self-esteem, self-efficacy, and hope of the participants were found to be moderately positive with a lower level of life orientation. The stigma of disability was found to have a negative significant correlation with the constructs of self, thus indicating that despite the efforts to sensitize the general public and help the people with a disability gain their rightful status in society, this population is possibly still struggling with the prejudice and discrimination due to their condition which is causing a negative impact on the development of how they perceive themselves. An inclusive approach for diverse categories at a systemic level is strongly needed at both policy and individual levels in the country to help the target group find their place and gain rightful equity.