Year: 2012
Type: article
Abstract: Medicalization is the process of defining non-medical problems in medical terms, usually with the implication that a medical intervention is needed. It has been criticized for re-labeling “normal” human experiences as pathological or medical conditions. Some of the driving engines of medicalization include growth of pharmaceutical industry, advertising, managed care, and biotechnology. In the last few decades, serious concerns have also been raised about medicalization of mental health issues. Diagnosis such as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and sexual disorders are discussed in context of medicalization. Also, role of various stakeholders in dealing with medicalization are discussed. Keywords: Medicalization, mental health, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), medical marketing, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Authors: Rakesh Kumar Chadda, Swati Gupta
Institution: All India Institute of Medical Sciences
Language: English
Topic: Psychology and Mental Health
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2959380800