Understanding the Impact of Labeling on Children's Mental Health
School
University of Notre Dame**We aren't endorsed by this school
Course
HISTORY 1102
Subject
Psychology
Date
Dec 11, 2024
Pages
4
Uploaded by GeneralSkunk4062
1Labeling ChildrenStudent’s NameInstitutional AffiliationCourseProfessor’s NameDate
2Labeling ChildrenThe act of grouping individuals with mental, health and development disorder has, for a period, been a topic of debate. Diagnosis of individuals with mental illnesses can bring a sense ofidentification, thus providing a common goal linguistic for identifying the shared experiences among these people. Moreover, it can be an essential tool for medical personnel when diagnosingand treating these disorders. Contrarily, diagnosis can also be used as a tool for labeling individuals with mental, health, and developmental disorders in a way that can result in stigmatization and discrimination. For instance, the act of using the "R-word" for the medication of individuals with intellectual disabilities indicates that individuals with disabilities are less valuable compared with those without (Special Olympics, 2020). As a result, spreading the R-word keeps hurting individuals with intellectual disabilities, and eliminating it would be a step towards respect for all.Labeling individuals with diagnoses of disorders such as autism spectrum disorders and fatal alcohol disorders can result in many problems. Diagnosis becomes a means of identity for the individual affected. The disadvantage of labeling is that individuals may feel exposed, thus creating stereotypes. The occurrence of stereotypes can lead to unrealistic expectations. This can lead to a loss of self-esteem, and individuals may fail to participate in community and society activities. Stigmatization and discrimination can lead to reduced hope, low self-esteem, and challenges with social interactions (Borenstein, 2020). However, labeling with the diagnosis can as well be advantageous. Diagnosis can grant an individual access to resources that can help treatthe disorder. Diagnostic labels help identify people's problems and create room for greater understanding.
3Eventually, it is essential to identify the effect of the labels and be careful of the languagewe use in determining the individual with mental, health, and developmental disorders. Being human, individuals should use language that equalizes all individuals regardless of their diagnosis. Individuals with disabilities are human, and acknowledging and treating their differences can usually be helpful. How individuals interact with those affected by the disorder can be beneficial in counteracting the stigma and discrimination that result from the diagnosis.
4ReferenceBorenstein, J. (2020, August). Stigma, prejudice, and discrimination against people with mental illness. American Psychiatric Association. https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/stigma-and-discriminationSpecial Olympics. (2020, September 25). Why the R-Word Is the R-Slur. SpecialOlympics.org. https://www.specialolympics.org/stories/impact/why-the-r-word-is-the-r-slur