Medicalisation

Medicalisation refers to the process by which human conditions and experiences, previously considered normal or within the realm of social or personal issues, come to be defined and treated as medical problems. This involves framing behaviors, emotions, or life events as illnesses or disorders requiring medical intervention, diagnosis, and treatment.

The concept of medicalisation is often discussed in sociology and the history of medicine. It highlights how societal norms and values can influence what is considered a medical condition. For example, conditions like childhood hyperactivity, menopause, or even shyness have, at different times and in different cultural contexts, been subject to medicalisation. This shift can lead to increased use of medical services, pharmaceuticals, and professional expertise to manage or alleviate these experiences.

Critics of medicalisation argue that it can pathologize normal human experiences, leading to over-diagnosis and over-treatment. They suggest that it may distract from social, environmental, or psychological factors that contribute to a person's distress or difficulties. Conversely, proponents might argue that medicalisation can provide relief and effective treatments for individuals who previously suffered without recognition or recourse, and can help destigmatize certain conditions by framing them within a medical model. The extent and impact of medicalisation are subjects of ongoing debate.