Language and labelling
Abstract
This chapter focuses on language and labelling as they pertain to mental health. I consider the power of language, in mental health and other contexts such as domestic abuse and labelling theory. I introduce a systemic idea of ‘Co-ordinated management of meaning’ and a model to make sense of the stories told around mental health. I focus on language used around emotional distress, psychiatric diagnosis, its impacts, potential dangers and revisit stigma. I discuss the well-known adverse childhood experiences study and provide some critique of its application. I end with consideration of the nocebo effect in mental health and touch on euthanasia.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Psychology and Mental Health
Medical Research and Practices
Mental Health and Psychiatry
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Routledge eBooks
- Pages
- 74–93
- Publication date
- 11 February 2026
- Language
- EN
- Document type
- Book chapter