The Role of Social Stigma in Self-Concept: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Objective: The present study was conducted to analyze the influence of stigma on individuals' self-concept by reviewing relevant scientific evidence and providing practical solutions.

Methods and Materials: This study is a systematic review conducted based on PRISMA guidelines. To maximize the comprehensiveness of the search, Persian keywords (انگ, انگ اجتماعی, خودپنداره) and their English equivalents (Stigma, Social stigma, Self-concept) were used, along with the AND and OR operators. Articles published from 2005 to February 25, 2025, were retrieved from Persian-language electronic databases, including Magiran, SID, Medilib, and ISC, as well as international databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, and Springer, in addition to the Google Scholar search engine. Furthermore, the 22-item STROBE checklist was used to assess the quality of the articles. In this study, out of 30 reviewed articles, six studies of appropriate quality were included in the systematic review. According to the PRISMA checklist, all research methodology steps, including searching, article screening, and data extraction, were carried out. Additionally, qualitative evaluation was independently conducted by two researchers, and final consensus was achieved through a third reviewer acting as a mediator.

Findings: The results indicated that social stigma profoundly affects individuals' self-concept and can lead to decreased self-esteem and self-efficacy, as well as increased self-stigmatization.

Conclusion: These findings highlight the necessity of designing and implementing interventions to reduce stigma and support individuals exposed to this phenomenon.