Introduction. This study explores how self-stigma influences the information behaviour of individuals living with alcohol use disorder by integrating Goffman’s theory of stigma and impression management with Chatman’s theories of information poverty and small worlds. It examines how secrecy, selective disclosure, and bounded trust shape information seeking, sharing, and avoidance in stigmatised contexts.

Method. A conceptual and theoretical synthesis approach was used, drawing from sociological and information behaviour literature to identify points of intersection between stigma, identity management, and information control.

Analysis. The analysis highlights how individuals with alcohol use disorder construct trusted small worlds where insider trust is high, but information exchange remains limited. Within these worlds, secrecy and selective engagement with information function as protective strategies rather than mere barriers.

Results. The study introduces the adapted concept of information insularity—a self-protective form of information control where individuals create informational islands to maintain safety, identity, and belonging.

Conclusion. Findings suggest the need for stigma-sensitive and anonymous information systems that foster trust while expanding access to credible, evidence-based resources. Theoretically, this work reframes self-stigma as an informational condition and contributes to understanding how social vulnerability shapes everyday information behaviour.