Abstract

Albinism is a rare genetic condition that affects the pigmentation of the retina, hair, and skin. Consequently, people with albinism world-wide experience the stigma and negative repercussions of an unconventional physical appearance as well as a visual disability. In-depth interviews were conducted with 7 women and 5 men, living in various countries globally. The study is framed around Erving Goffman's theory of stigma and "spoiled identity" as well as the more recent Disability Studies that stresses "the normals" as being the "identity spoilers" or the "problem". The participants revealed victimisation from various sources including students, teachers, employers, colleagues, strangers and the medical profession. Focus is placed on the strategies that respondents have devised in coping with the adversities that often accompany a highly visible physical difference and disability. Eight principal methods of reaction and response to the discrimination against people with albinism can be distinguished. These strategies varied depending on the circumstances of the interaction and the informant's coping skills

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