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Self-Stigma Profiles Among Transition-Age Individuals With Disabilities
Journal article   Peer reviewed

Self-Stigma Profiles Among Transition-Age Individuals With Disabilities

Heerak Choi, Allen W. Heinemann and Connie Sung
Rehabilitation psychology, Vol.71(2), pp.252-261
05/01/2026
DOI: 10.1037/rep0000629
PMID: 40608435

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Abstract

Purpose/Objective: Self-stigma can negatively affect transition-age individuals with disabilities, resulting in low self-worth, decreased psychosocial functioning, and reduced interest in career achievement. This study aimed to identify self-stigma profiles among transition-age individuals with disabilities, describe these profile patterns, and examine differences in basic psychological need satisfaction and career achievability across subgroups defined by these profiles. Research Method/Design: We conducted a cross-sectional study using an online survey. A total of 199 transition-age individuals with disabilities were included in the data analysis. Latent profile analysis, Fisher's exact test, and one-way analysis of variance were used. Results: The analysis identified a four-profile solution characterized by high, mid-high, mid-low, and low levels of self-stigma in cognition, affect, and behavior. Individuals in the high (n = 17) or mid-high self-stigma groups (n = 104) reported lower satisfaction in autonomy, competence, and relatedness compared to those in the low (n = 19) or mid-low (n = 59) self-stigma groups. These subgroups differed significantly in career achievability, such that individuals in the low or mid-low self-stigma groups reported higher career achievability than those in the high or mid-high self-stigma groups. Conclusions/Implications: Transition-age individuals with disabilities require support to reduce self-stigma that is associated with the satisfaction of basic psychological needs and career achievability. This can be achieved by addressing stigmatizing beliefs and fostering empowerment. Replication with a larger, more diverse sample is necessary to validate these findings and develop effective interventions to counter self-stigma.
 Life Sciences & Biomedicine Psychology Psychology, Clinical Rehabilitation Science & Technology Social Sciences

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