The Stigmatization of Mental Illnesses in Mainstream Pakistani Television Dramas Using Critical Discourse Analysis

Abstract

Mainstream television Pakistani dramas serve as the primary cultural narrative, substantially influencing public perceptions of social realities. However, their portrayal of mental problems and illnesses frequently reinforces long-standing cultural stereotypes and stigmas. This study uses a Qualitative Critical Discourse Analysis of selected famous Pakistani dramas to explore how a range of mental illnesses are stigmatized both verbally and structurally. Additionally, it used Norman Fairclough’s Three-Dimensional Framework to study the data at three levels: textual linguistic choices, discursive production, and socio-cultural activities. 

The results of the text-level analysis showed a recurrent usage of derogatory or offensive local lexicons (such as pagal, tension, and waham) and discourse patterns that attribute complex psychological issues to attention-seeking behavior, structural flaws, or supernatural interventions. Narrative arcs sometimes characterize mental health issues via a strongly gendered lens at the discursive and social levels, discounting women's suffering as "hysteria" and men's sensitivity as a sign of a lack of manhood. Additionally, rather than relying on expert psychiatric support, the discourse often bases solutions on spiritual rectitude or marital partnership.