Stéréotypes d’incompétence des bénéficiaires du RSA : une enquête auprès des professionnels de l’insertion du RSA

Background

RSA beneficiaries constitute a stigmatized group within the French population. The stereotype of incompetence, defined very broadly, appears central in this stigmatization, even though the valorization of skills is a fundamental aspect of professional integration support.

Objectives

The objective of this study is to identify the domains of skills stigmatized in RSA beneficiaries by insertion professionals and the factors associated with this stigmatization.

Method

An online survey was conducted with a specific measure of the stereotype of incompetence and its associated factors. Participants must be insertion professionals working with RSA beneficiaries. Participants were recruited on professional social networks.

Results

The responses of 427 participants were analyzed. The results reveal four domains of strongly stigmatized skills: the competence to make decisions regarding one's health, the competence to be effective at work, the competence to maintain good social relationships, and the ability to control one's emotions. Beliefs regarding the possibility of professional integration, perceived similarities between professionals and RSA beneficiaries, and the type of support are factors associated with less stigmatization of skills.

Conclusion

RSA beneficiaries are the subject of multiple stereotypes of incompetence among insertion professionals. These different domains of stereotypical beliefs are therefore a relevant target for promoting RSA beneficiary support types aimed at reducing stigmatization and promoting their professional integration.