The Power of Words
As child-serving professionals, we understand the importance of communication; language influences how people think and behave. In recognition of the power of words, the Social Work Code of Ethics says this about professional responsibilities to clients: Social workers should use accurate and respectful language in all communications to and about clients. (p.16)
The American Medical Association, in their Guide to Language, Narrative and Concepts, is an excellent resource for those of us looking to shore up our skills in respectful communication. Building on guidance developed the Centers for Disease Control, the AMA includes the following suggestions in their report:
- Use humanizing, person-first language to describe people who have a condition or circumstance. The CDC suggests saying people experiencing homelessness rather than homeless people.
- Avoid use of adjectives such as vulnerable, marginalized, and high-risk. These are vague, deficit-based (as opposed to asset-based) terms that imply the condition is inherent to the group rather than the social conditions. Instead, use terms that explain why groups may be affected more than others, such as disinvested or people who are not served by [system/program].
- Limit use of the term minorities, which means “less than” and is considered pejorative. Instead, be specific in defining groups with terms like people from racial and ethnic groups and/or use terms like historically marginalized.
- Avoid unintentional blaming. Consider whether your language potentially reinforces negative assumptions, stereotypes, or stigma. Do not assume that people are refusing a service or choosing not to participate in a program. Adherence, for example, is preferred over compliance, which describes the passive behavior of following instructions. While non-compliance places blame on the client, non-adherence there may be alternate explanations, such as mistrust of a system or resource constraints.
To be sure, language evolves and requires context. Terms that are preferred here and now may be less so in the future or in different circumstances. Our responsibility is to recognize the importance and power of language, and to ensure that the words we use demonstrate respect for the people we serve.