Q& A

Examining the stigma around STIs.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

Isat down with Northwestern sociology professor Dr. David Schieber to understand more about stigma.

NBN: From a sociology standpoint, is there a relatively simple definition of stigma?

Schieber: People are treated differently by other groups of people in society. A key feature of stigma is invisibility versus visibility. When people feel bad about something and have the ability to hide it, they do so.

NBN: How might this translate to the stigma surrounding STI testing?

Schieber: Very consistently within sociology, anytime one group feels like another group is placing shame upon them or judging them for what they’re doing, they don’t try to make it obvious. STI testing is certainly in that category. Especially in the U.S., there’s a kind of moral stance against sex or sexual activity outside of marriage or relationships. It certainly ends up shaping whether or not people even seek out STI testing or are embarrassed to even talk about them.

NBN: What are some ways we can approach STIs differently to reduce the stigma about getting tested?

Schieber: Take an emphasis off of blame. Don’t blame people for the situation they’re in. It’s like, this is an infectious disease, you have it, let’s treat it. You could get a cold, you could get an STI. That’s the situation. And then drawing equivalences. This is not something that’s unique to you. This happens to other people, and that’s OK. As you describe, going to get tested with friends — that’s very positive in terms of removing stigma.