Abstract
In this paper, we adopted an ecological model and relational cognition framework to decolonize pandemic stigma in a non-WEIRD society. We reconstructed the concept of pandemic stigma in an ex-colonized and multicultural society of Southeast Asia region, by conducting a qualitative study in Malaysia to explore their lived experiences of differential treatment during the COVID-19 Pandemic from 2020 to 2022. We interviewed 30 Malaysians aged 18–64 of diverse ethnicities (Malays, Chinese, Indians, and other minorities) through online semi-structured sessions and coded the transcripts through consensus thematic analysis. Results showed that the interviewees’ lived experiences of stigma could be conceptualized as negative interactions with multiple systems: (1) Kinship, (2) Companionship, (3) Organizations, (4) Societal (5) Political, as well as (6) Internal systems. We found that interviewees attributed their experiences of stigma to (1) Individual (self) reasons, (2) Impact of close relationships, (3) Impact of casual social interactions, and (4) Impact of cultural-political context. Our findings could be translated into culturally responsive and context-specific interventions, which addressed systemic injustice that exacerbated the global polarization during the pandemic.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
