Individuals often experience ostracism/bullying because they do not fit the prescribed norms of a group. Although a great deal of research has examined the impact of ostracism and bullying on individuals (e.g., mental disabilities, HIV, or deafness), research on individuals with visual impairments is limited. Research demonstrates that individuals with disabilities can improve their well-being by adopting empowerment strategies (Pensgaard & Sorensen, 2001). Thus, the current study examines the relationships between experiences with bullying and/ or ostracism, perceived stigma, empowerment, and self-stigma in individuals with visual impairments. A sample of 49 individuals with visual impairments answered questions regarding the extent to which they were bullied, their specific experiences with bullying, empowerment, and both perceived and self-stigma. Findings revealed that the extent that individuals were bullied was related to increases in perceived stigma and self-stigma. Self-stigma was in turn related to decreased feelings of empowerment and increases in perceived stigma.
| Presenter: | Kala Rounds (Undergraduate Student) |
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| Topic: | Psychology |
| Location: | 104 Edwards |
| Time: | 1:45 pm Session III |
