In simple terms, stigma is when people have unfair, damaging attitudes, use negative stereotypes, and treat others differently because of a specific circumstance or health condition.  We often refer to these underlying unfair attitudes and stereotypes as stigmatising beliefs.

Stigma around FASD can be directed at the person with FASD, their biological parent, or their caregivers (including adoptive or whānau parents) due to unfair assumptions about the family or whānau. It can come from anyone—friends, health professionals, educators, peers, the general public, or even whānau or family members.

Whether it’s unconscious or deliberate, stigma always stems from a lack of understanding, and it can be deeply hurtful and isolating for the person and their whole whānau / family.