Pathogenic language in psychiatric practice and how to combat it

Abstract

Objective: Psychiatrists are susceptible intermittently to use dehumanising terms in their clinical practice, which arguably harm patients and their families. Our goal is to shed light on this unwelcome phenomenon and to develop the means to combat it. Method: We have examined journal articles, books on the history of psychiatry, and educational material devised for psychiatric patients, for evidence of what we have called ‘pathogenic language’. We have also sought colleagues’ reflections on the subject. Results: We have identified several terms that are ostensibly pathogenic, tried to illuminate their intrinsic features and devised guidelines to stem their use. Conclusions: Psychiatrists have the potential to harm patients and their families by using pathogenic language when communicating with them. We conclude that meticulous attention to this risk, coupled with appropriate ethically based and educational strategies, can contribute to the eradication of pathogenic language and prevent its recurrence.