Labelling: New Labels for Old?

Abstract

After examining labelling theory and criticisms of it, I look at how the theory could be interpreted regarding different disorders. The chapter explores strategies for resisting potential negative effects of labelling. I consider whether expressions such as ‘special education’ and ‘intellectual disability’ constitute negative labelling, and whether ‘oppositional defiance disorder’ and similar terms are simply labels for naughty boys. Asking whether there is unnecessary medical labelling of special students, the chapter explores ‘identity spread’. I discuss positive labelling for special students and examine negative and positive labelling of those connected with special schools.