Identity Concealment and Social Change: Balancing Advocacy Goals Against Individual Needs

Abstract

We consider the conflicting multilevel forces around concealment and disclosure that may weigh on individuals as they navigate life with a concealable stigmatized identity. In particular, we explore a tension that can arise between immediate personal motivations to conceal and the potential for disclosure to increase the visibility of a stigmatized group and normalize it, thus helping to change social attitudes and reduce structural stigma. We argue that personal benefits of disclosure are moderated by individual differences and situational characteristics. This suggests that a one‐size‐fits‐all approach that focuses exclusively or primarily on the benefits of disclosure can be problematic. We thus recommend that any intervention campaign that seeks to encourage disclosure should balance social advocacy goals with individual needs. We conclude with a discussion of possible intervention strategies that could be used to (1) help individuals manage the disclosure process and (2) help create more favorable organizational and civic climates where concealment is less necessary.

Issue Introduction: Identity Concealment: Multilevel Predictors, Moderators, and Consequences

“…However, given the potential costs to those who disclose, researchers and policy makers should be cautious in adopting a blanket recommendation for disclosure over concealment. We conclude the issue with a hard look at the costs and consequences of concealment for social policy and social change while maintaining a focus on the needs of individuals (Pasek, Filip-Crawford, & Cook, 2017).…”

Adapting to Multiple Sclerosis Stigma Across the Life Span

“…For example, over time, people might adapt to MS by surrounding themselves with supportive others, educating others about their illness, and strategically choosing to conceal or disclose their MS status. 13,[16][17][18] If so, as people gain experience coping with MS, they may be less likely to anticipate or experience being a target of stigma. [19][20][21][22] Consistent with this adjustment view, people with MS often describe developing a more positive, optimistic outlook over time.…”

Identity Concealment and Chronic Illness: A Strategic Choice

“…Succesful concealment can also prevent discrimination (Chaudoir & Fisher, 2010;Cole et al, 1997;Gupta & Jürges, 2012;Quinn & Chaudoir, 2009), and thus help with career advancement and other self-relevant goals requiring external approval. Thus, considering situational variability and individual differences, there are reasons to expect that benefits of concealment do, in fact, sometimes outweigh costs (Pasek, Filip-Crawford, & Cook, 2017).…”