Several lines of evidence suggest that the experience of stigma and discrimination may cause social isolation. Experimental research has shown that the experience of social exclusion leads to selective memories for negative social information (Gardner, Pickett, & Brewer, 2000). As these memories for social rejection become more salient and therefore chronically available, research on construct accessibility (Higgins, King, & Mavin, 1982) suggests that they may become a source of avoidance of future interactions. In addition, people who are especially vigilant for signs of danger and rejection often communicate these expectations to others, ironically creating the very rejection they fear (Major & O’Brien, 2005). Finally, the decision to conceal one’s stigma may also lead to social avoidance and isolation (Pachankis, 2008). In an experience sampling study, those with concealable stigmas (e.g., gay and lesbian students, poor students) experienced a lift in mood and self-esteem only when in the presence of those who shared their stigma; however, they were significantly less likely to experience such occasions compared to those with visible stigmas (Frable, Platt, & Hoey, 1998). Fears of rejection and negative
