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The Delphic nature of the language of psychiatry

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  04 October 2021

Matti Huttunen*
Affiliation:
Department of Psychiatry, University of Helsinki, Finland
*
*Address for correspondence: Matti Huttunen, Kolmas linja 20 B 21, 00530 Helsinki, Finland (Email: matti.huttunen@konsmoh.inet.fi)

Abstract

In this perspective piece, the language used in psychiatric classification is considered from a linguistic and anthropological perspective. It is important for psychiatrists to consider how ambiguous language can impact on their view of clinical presentations and the delivery of treatments. Ultimately, delivering care using an empathic and humane approach should always be a primary consideration when treating mental illness.

Type
Perspective Piece
Copyright
© The Author(s), 2021. Published by Cambridge University Press on behalf of The College of Psychiatrists of Ireland

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