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Editorial
. 2019 Jun;28(3):258-261.
doi: 10.1017/S2045796018000513. Epub 2018 Sep 11.

The debate about renaming schizophrenia: a new name would not resolve the stigma

W Gaebel  1 , A Kerst  1
Affiliations
Editorial

The debate about renaming schizophrenia: a new name would not resolve the stigma

W Gaebel et al. Epidemiol Psychiatr Sci. 2019 Jun.

Abstract

The concept and name of schizophrenia have been questioned in the scientific community and among various stakeholders. A name change is seen as a means and an opportunity to reduce stigmatizing beliefs and to improve mental health care. Some Asian countries have already taken the step of a name change. So far, however, the scientific community of western countries has not yet come to an agreement on any alternative name. Meeting relevant criteria for a new name, finding agreement among all involved groups and replacing the established term is a complex process. For now, the concept of schizophrenia has proven its reliability, clinical utility and validity, although schizophrenia is a stigmatised mental disorder like many others. Renaming cannot be the only answer to negative beliefs, prejudice and discrimination.

Keywords: Attitudes; mental illness stigma; schizophrenia; stereotypes.

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References

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