GOING INTO THE CLOSET WITH SCIENCE

Abstract

This analysis extends the notion of occupational stigmatization beyond traditionally low-status, marginal workers to scientists and technicians who conduct biomedical research on animals. Like many “dirty” workers, animal research personnel report that they see themselves as stigmatized by others and sometimes manage information about themselves and their work to avoid unpleasant interactions with those who disapprove of what they do. While information may be managed about their occupational identity through concealment or cautious disclosure, these practices suggest guilt and create a dilemma for some. Nevertheless, the use of information control strategies often seems imperative in the face of a threatening “other,” defined as either reproaching, confrontive, dangerous, and/or distorting.