Using Erving Goffman's analysis of stigma as a springboard, this paper presents and comments on a case history of one individual to illustrate how relationships are managed in controlling the stigma of petit mal epilepsy. Particular attention is given to the `discreditable' nature of petit mal which has subtle overt physical manifestations and subtle consequences for social conduct but may have serious psychic consequences for the sufferer. Techniques for stigma management become acute at times of change in the sufferer's social contexts—due to problems associated with controlling personal information about a `minor' condition which can have major consequences for life chances.
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