Internalized stigma is a psychological phenomenon where individuals feel negative feelings about themselves because they believe others have negative attitudes towards them due to their personal attributes. Internalized stigma can influence decision-making, leadership, and professional identity in many ways.
People with internalized stigma may experience self-doubt and lack confidence, which can lead to poor decision-making. They may also avoid taking risks or pursuing opportunities that require them to take ownership or speak up for themselves, limiting their potential growth and success.
Individuals with internalized stigma may find it challenging to be assertive or advocate for themselves, leading to a lack of professional development or advancement.
Addressing and overcoming internalized stigma can empower individuals to embrace their identities, build resilience, and achieve greater success.
When it comes to decision-making, leaders who internalize stigmas may be hesitant to make bold decisions or take calculated risks. This hesitation can result in missed opportunities, lost revenue, and decreased innovation. Instead, leaders should seek out diverse perspectives, listen actively, and consider multiple options before making decisions. They must also be aware of biases and stereotypes that may affect their thinking and decision-making.
Leaders who overcome internalized stigma can become more effective at making decisions that benefit their organizations and drive results.
Professional identity is closely linked to how we view ourselves and our abilities. Individuals with internalized stigma may struggle with imposter syndrome, feeling like they do not belong or are not qualified to hold certain positions or roles. To overcome this, they must recognize their strengths, work on building confidence, and focus on continual learning and improvement. By doing so, they can develop a strong sense of self-worth and professional identity that supports their career aspirations.
Internalized stigma can have significant effects on decision-making, leadership, and professional identity. Addressing and overcoming these challenges requires awareness, reflection, and action.
How does internalized stigma influence decision-making, leadership, and professional identity?
Internalized stigma is defined as "the process by which negative stereotypes about an individual's group membership become internalized, resulting in self-stigmatization" (Snell et al. , 2017). The impact of this phenomenon on decision-making, leadership, and professional identity can be far-reaching, with individuals who experience it often struggling to navigate their roles at work and in society more broadly.