(Un)Expected Consequences of Desegregation Educational Policies on Families: Stigma and Emotionality

Recently, policies against school segregation have emerged as a crucial strategy for public administrations aiming to create more equitable educational systems. Specifically, the "Shock Plan Against School Segregation" (SP), launched in 2019 in Barcelona, seeks to reduce educational segregation through a more equitable distribution of vulnerable students, utilizing targeted funding, preassigned school seats, and quotas.

This article examines the impact of SP on targeted families, focusing on the emotional factors involved, particularly stigma. It is based on a qualitative study comprising 60 semi-structured interviews with families benefiting from SP across 32 schools in Barcelona.

Findings indicate that the policy's impact is marked by a pervasive sense of calm and relief among the targeted families. The perception of public support fosters a deep sense of gratitude, consistently expressed in the interviews. However, a complex interplay of emotions also arises alongside these positive feelings and talks about different forms of expression of stigma. Many families report experiencing guilt and shame, viewing the assistance as a privilege. Additionally, those assigned to elite schools often face discrimination. This discrimination manifests in practices such as imposing unjustified fees and creating a sense of alienation within the school community. These experiences can lead families to feel as if they are being exploited by the very assistance designed to help them.

In conclusion, while the emotional benefits of the policy are significant, unexpected consequences related to stigmatization must be considered to fully understand the key elements of desegregation policies as SP.