Written by Robin N. Fatovic M.S.

Reference:

Granello, D. H., & Gorby, S. R. (2021). It's time for counselors to modify our language: It matters when we call our clients schizophrenics versus people with schizophrenia.

The way we refer to people matters. Health professions encourage practitioners to use “person-first” terms, like “a person with cancer” rather than “a cancer patient.”

Researchers gave a measure of tolerance of people with schizophrenia to 250 mental health counselors and practicing students. Half received a version of the measure that referred to people as “schizophrenic,” while the other half saw people “with schizophrenia.” 

Results? Those who read questions that used the word “schizophrenic” showed more authoritarian qualities and believed that people with the disorder needed control and discipline. They indicated more need for social distance from these individuals, believing they were a danger to others. In comparison to counseling students, practicing counselors showed less benevolence, or kindness and willingness to help.

We subconsciously tie certain beliefs and emotions to the words we use. Referring to people as their diagnosis disregards all their other qualities that make them human. Family, friends, journalists, and those in health services, notice the words you use about others. Refer to patients or clients as a person first, with a diagnosis. This likely will change the way you view and treat them!