STIGMA AND ARCHITECTURE : A STUDY OF ITE NEW CAMPUS

Abstract

This paper aims to establish a relationship between the physical built environments to the management of stigma. There has been little research on physical built environment regarded as a process or instrument in the negotiation of stigma. This paper reports on research into the transformative strategies of the ITE Vocational Education with a particular interest in its place-making strategy – its new mega campuses. By examining the campus architecturally, questions are raised pertaining to the approaches of architects in challenging the perpetual stigma. More importantly, it also questions whether physical transformation has been acknowledged and utilized by the stigmatized individuals as such it has influenced their behavioral patterns and personal developments in regards to managing their stigma. Identification of the active and influential role of buildings in the destigmatization process may prove useful in recognizing the potential extent of the physical built environment.