Rejection, Stigma and Self-Esteem Among South American Immigrants in an Irregular Situation in Chile

The reality of individuals without an immigration status is complicated because of administrative problems and the effects of negative social interactions on their well-being. The present article analyzes the possible mediating role of internalized stigma in the relationship between perceived rejection and self-esteem among South American individuals without an immigration status in Chile. The study involved the participation of 174 immigrants living in Chile for at least one year without an immigration status; their participation was voluntary and they did not receive any payment for being part of the study. The results indicate that internalized stigma fully mediates the effect of perceived rejection on the self-esteem of these people, which shows how negative social interactions can be for this population. We conclude with the importance of the findings for future studies, policies, and interventions with South American individuals without an immigration status.