Identify the main reason that a person with a psychiatric disorder is given a diagnostic label. Describe both the potential benefits and drawbacks of labeling a person as suffering from a mental illness or disorder.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

The main reason for applying diagnostic labels to psychological disorders is the framework provided in the classification and categorization of abnormal behaviors. This classification is important for researching psychological disorders and reporting accurate health statistics. Additionally, the use of shared terminology and labeling aids communication between mental health professionals. Some benefits to identifying and labeling a person with a specific psychological disorder are practical-for example, receiving a label may make a person eligible for services and treatments. Also, being labeled with a mental illness may encourage others to be empathetic and understanding. One drawback to psychiatric labeling is the social stigma experienced by the disordered person. The person may fear being negatively perceived or rejected by others, which can lead to a person's avoiding professional help.