Which term describes a socially constructed mark of disgrace that influences social interactions and opportunities?

• A. Bias
• B. Stereotype
• C. Stigma
• D. Prejudice

Answer: (C)

Stigma is a socially constructed mark of disgrace attached to a person or group that changes how others interact with them and what opportunities they can access. When society labels a trait, illness, or identity as deviant or inferior, people may be avoided, excluded, or denied resources in areas like work, housing, and social life, regardless of the individual's abilities. This goes beyond personal biases or beliefs; it creates concrete social consequences that shape behavior and access. The other terms describe related ideas but not the specific social consequence at play: bias is a general predisposition in judgment, stereotypes are oversimplified beliefs about a group, and prejudice is a negative attitude toward a group. Stigma uniquely captures the social mark that drives discriminatory interactions and unequal opportunities.