Abnormal psychology Quote by Erving Goffman
““Here I want to stress that perception of losing one’s mind is based on culturally derived and socially ingrained stereotypes as to the significance of symptoms such as hearing voices, losing temporal and spatial orientation, and sensing that one is being followed, and that many of the most spectacular and convincing of these symptoms in some instances psychiatrically signify merely a temporary emotional upset in a stressful situation, however terrifying to the person at the time. Similarly, the anxiety consequent upon this perception of oneself, and the strategies devised to reduce this anxiety, are not a product of abnormal psychology, but would be exhibited by any person socialized into our culture who came to conceive of himself as someone losing his mind.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Stigma: Notes on the Management of Spoiled Identity, 1963
Perception of mental breakdown is shaped by cultural stereotypes, not just pathology; anxiety stems from social expectations.
In simple terms: Cultural myths make mental distress seem abnormal.
Key Takeaway
Question and challenge stigma.
Themes
stigma
mental health
culture
anxiety
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
theoretical
educational
When to use this quote
- clinical assessment
- public education
- support groups
- media representation
Key Concepts
social construction
identity
coping mechanisms
Questions to Reflect On
- How do cultural narratives affect your self‑view?
- What strategies reduce anxiety without pathologizing?
A Different Perspective
Not all distress is pathological; context matters.
![“Emma cites the structure of the [Eating Disorder] Unit as being important to her decision to disengage from her illness, and the fact that she felt safe in it, and cared for. 'It was the first time I'd been in an environment where I felt comfortabe with all the people around me. I felt "I can be…” quote by Carol Lee](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/419/carol-lee-39506_anorexia_emma-cites-the-structure-of-the-eating-d_45862.jpg)
