Beyond Stigma: Considering 'Sanism' In Occupational Therapy

Background: The issue of stigma surrounding mental illness has received increasing attention within occupational therapy in the last decade. However, focus has been primarily limited to the individual(s) being stigmatized,... [ view full abstract ]

Background: The issue of stigma surrounding mental illness has received increasing attention within occupational therapy in the last decade. However, focus has been primarily limited to the individual(s) being stigmatized, rather than on the underlying processes that give rise to stigma. This paper explores ‘sanism’, described by Perlin (2003) as a deeply embedded and prevailing system of thought that provides a foundation upon which stigma and an irrational prejudice thrives - much like racism, sexism, or homophobia - against persons with mental health diagnoses.

Method: This presentation engages critical reflexivity (Kinsella & Whiteford, 2009) to examine discourses of ‘sanism’ that have begun to emerge in mental healthcare literature. Accounts drawn from this literature will be used to illustrate how sanism may be seen to operate both materially and conceptually within healthcare contexts, and to consider the implications for the occupational therapy profession.

Results: We propose that a critically reflexive examination of sanism has the potential to reduce oppressive and stigmatizing practices in occupational therapy, and to advance social justice for persons experiencing mental illness.

Conclusion: This presentation will critically examine the concept of ‘sanism’ and its possibilities for making visible dimensions important to occupational therapy education, practice, and research.

Application to Practice: Occupational therapists are well positioned to take leadership roles in addressing sanism, given the profession’s expressed commitment to the support of anti-stigma agendas and initiatives. Raising awareness and reflexively examining how the concept of sanism operates has generative possibilities for professional practice in mental health.