Manifestations of Stigma and Prejudice Informed by Treated Lepers

Abstract

Introduction: The segregation of people affected by leprosy in leper colonies as well as presenting itself ineffective, caused irreversible and irreparable consequences in the lives of individuals who came to carry the marks of stigma and prejudice surrounding the disease. Results:The stigma and the prejudice crystallized in our culture had caused and still cause huge suffering and pain in the participants, who grew up and several aged in biological terms, living with a stigmatizing disease and its complications, sometimes disabling ones. In social and psychological terms, they were discriminated, rejected and even expelled from the familiar conviviality and the original social nucleus. Conclusion:In this manner, one notices the need of these people recover their attachments, values and self-esteem, share feelings and build relationships so as to be integrated in the real world.