Medicalization

Medicalization is a process by which non-medical problems become defined and treated as medical problems, usually in terms of illnesses or disorders. This process can occur at an individual or a societal level.

Definition

Medicalization is defined as the process by which certain aspects of life become medicalized, i.e., become the subject of medical definition, diagnosis, and treatment. This can include both physical and mental conditions. The concept of medicalization was first studied in the context of sociology and medicine.

History

The concept of medicalization was first introduced in the 1970s by sociologists who were concerned about the medical profession's increasing influence in society. The term was popularized by Peter Conrad, a sociologist who has written extensively on the subject.

Examples

Examples of medicalization include the classification of alcoholism and drug addiction as medical problems, the increasing use of pharmaceutical drugs to treat normal human emotions and behaviors, and the medicalization of childbirth.

Criticism

Critics of medicalization argue that it can lead to over-diagnosis and over-treatment, pathologize normal human behavior, and increase the power and influence of the medical profession. They also argue that it can lead to the neglect of social and environmental factors that contribute to health problems.

See also

• Demedicalization
• Pathologization
• Medical sociology
• Social constructionism

References

Medicalization Resources
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