ABSTRACT
E. Goffman’s theory on social stigma emphasizes that discrediting personal attributes are the essence of stigma. The strength of Goffman’s thesis lies in his description and perceptive understanding of the injustices of social stigma. He correctly associates stigma with the devaluation of personhood and its corresponding feelings of anxiety, uncertainty, and inadequacy. Some qualities carry greater potential for stigma than for others. In addition, the degree and intensity with which a quality is discredited is a significant factor which shapes the individual’s reaction to and perception of stigma. Dying people are invalidated and stigmatized in several ways. The more social and personal identity is defined in terms of sexual and physical well-being, the more the physical predicament of the terminally ill becomes a source for stigma. Even supportive outreaching from one’s sexual partners or spouse often cannot ease the pain of physical and sexual stigma.
