The Impact of Labeling
The Impact of Labeling Labelling individuals with mental disorders can be harmful, as described in the theory of performative language. This can include stereotypes and stigmatizing terms, which can lead to biased psychological labelling. Negative or limiting language perpetuates stereotypes and creates harmful labels that influence how individuals are perceived and treated by others. Labelling theory in sociology suggests that individuals may internalize and conform to the labels assigned to them, potentially reinforcing certain traits due to performative aspects of communication. Labelling can overshadow understanding and lead individuals to adopt the identity of a mentally ill patient, even when their experiences are entirely normal given their life situations. When clinicians follow these rigid performative linguistic categories about mental health, it can create traps, and people may start behaving according to the labels given to them. This can lead to a cycle w...