the psychological process of internalization (internal assimilation) of negative social stereotypes, prejudices and attitudes towards one’s own group or condition (for example, mental disorder, disability, gender, etc.), as a result of which an individual begins to perceive himself through the prism of a public stigmatizing view.
It manifests itself in the form of shame, feelings of inferiority, low self-esteem, social isolation and refusal to receive help. Self-stigmatization hinders recovery, disrupts the sense of identity, and reduces quality of life.