LABELING MENTAL-ILLNESS - THE EFFECTS OF RECEIVED SERVICES AND PERCEIVED STIGMA ON LIFE SATISFACTION

Labeling theory proponents and the theory's critics have different vie ws of stigma and thus differ on the consequences of labeling for peopl e with mental illness. The labeling perspective posits that because of stigma, official labeling through treatment contact has negative cons equences for mental patients. In contrast, critics of labeling theory claim that stigma is relatively inconsequential. Instead, they argue t hat because labeling results in receiving needed services, it provides significant benefits for mental patients. Thus far, no study has rest ed the relative positive and negative effects of labeling. I examine t hese views by comparing the importance of perceived stigma versus the receipt of services for the quality of life of persons with chronic me ntal illness. Results show that both stigma and services received are significantly associated with quality of life, but in opposite ways. T hese findings have important implications for interventions for mental illness.