Investigating the Experience of Diabetes Stigma in Online Forums

Abstract

Stigma is pervasive and debilitating for people living with diabetes, carrying emotional, physiological, and social influences. Although researchers have investigated the sources and consequences of diabetes stigma, little is known about the lived experience of stigma. In this study, we used grounded theory methods to analyze data from 22 online diabetes forums. Results revealed that blaming and shaming was a core experience for people with diabetes, manifesting in feeling isolated, coping with weight, centering diabetes, and internalizing myths and misinformation. Posters disrupted their blame and shame by educating themselves and others and seeking mental health treatment. Results of the study have implications for research on diabetes stigma and practical value for mitigating the consequences of stigma.