Micro-Medicalization: Reconciling Theories of Medicalization and Labeling

• In Event: 3129 - Section on Medical Sociology Refereed Roundtables (1 hour)
  In Refereed Roundtable 60min: Table 18. Medicalization

Abstract

This paper seeks to rectify two theories that are currently contradictory. i.e., labeling theory and theories of medicalization. While labeling theory posits that labels increase stigma, theories of medicalization suggest labels can decrease stigma. Using a series of vignette-based survey experiments, I find that, as predicted by medicalization, labels decrease stigma when applied under highly ambiguous situations.

Author

• Bianca Manago, Vanderbilt University