THEORY OF ROLES AND STIGMATIZATION IN THE PROCESS OF PROVIDING SOCIAL COUNSELING SERVICES

Abstract

Introduction. The article attempts to explore the significance of social role theory and social stigmatization in counseling. For this purpose, the goal of the study is formulated, which consists in analyzing the relationship between the theory of social role and the phenomenon of social stigmatization in the process of providing social counseling services. To study the stated goal, a number of tasks were solved: a review of the main concepts was carried out; the relationship between the theory of role and stigmatization in counseling was substantiated; the role of the counselor in overcoming stigmatization during the provision of social counseling services was determined. Results. Based on the analysis of scientific research, the content of key concepts has been clarified. We consider a social role as a set of individual behavior models determined by social expectations, the status of the individual and the nature of interaction with society. It has been found that the theory of social roles explains how individuals accept and perform certain expected behavioral models in the process of interaction. The consultant and the client act as subjects with specific roles that affect the effectiveness of assistance and mutual understanding. At the same time, the theory of stigmatization explores how social labels and stereotypes regarding certain groups can affect the counseling process. The presence of stigma can lead to a decrease in the client’s level of trust, avoidance of assistance or even selfisolation. Social stigmatization is interpreted as the process of “hanging” labels (usually negative) on individuals or groups of people by society, which can lead to their discrimination, social exclusion and limitation of opportunities. The article emphasizes that knowledge of role theory and stigma is necessary for social counseling service providers, which will allow them to better understand client behavior, apply effective counseling approaches, minimize prejudice, and promote effective social integration of individuals facing stigma.