Stigma as an organizing framework for understanding the early history of community mental health and psychiatric social work. Issue 2 (3rd March 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Charles, Jennifer L. K.; Bentley, Kia J.
• Is Part Of: Social work in mental health. Volume 14:Issue 2(2016)
• Page Start: 149
• Page End: 173
• Publication Date: 2016-03-03
• Subjects: Stigma -- social work in mental health -- history of social work; Psychiatric social work -- Periodicals; 362.2042505
• DOI: 10.1080/15332985.2014.964448
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1533-2985

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The authors argue that stigma—both the forces that combat it and perpetuate it—can be viewed as an organizing framework for understanding the history of mental health care. This early history also provides a foundation for appreciating the roots of psychiatric social work and the uniqueness of our professional domain and identity. While hoping to build disciplinary pride, the article also points to work that remains to more deliberately oppose practices that perpetuate stigma, both subtle and overt, and instead embrace practices that humanize care for people with mental illness.