What is it about?
For the first time, this paper formally conceptualizes identity denial for people with disabilities. Identity denial is a type of identity threat in which a person is denied membership into a certain social group. We outline a model that includes factors that might predict increased identity denial. We also explore potential types of denial experiences. Finally, we look at the possible outcomes that may be related to experiencing disability identity denial.
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Why is it important?
This paper presents a theoretical model for identity denial in a population for which it has yet to be formally explored. People with disabilities represent the largest minority group in the United States, and disability is the only minority group that anyone can join at any time, making exploring this type of stigma critical for everyone. We hope that this model can serve as a starting point for future research into this phenomenon.
Perspectives
This article was a great way for me to collaborate with my peer on a research topic that brought together both of our interests. Personally, I was also able to explore the experiences of a new population of individuals. Additionally, I hope that this work leads to more research on this type of stigma in this important population and sheds light on its harmful effects.
Brianna Lopez
Rutgers University New Brunswick
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Toward a model of interpersonal disability identity denial., Translational Issues in Psychological Science, May 2026, American Psychological Association (APA),
DOI: 10.1037/tps0000507.
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