Pubdate: Tue, 27 Dec 2005
Source: Winnipeg Free Press (CN MB)
Copyright: 2005 Winnipeg Free Press
Contact:  http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/502
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v05/n1982/a07.html
Author: Don Crocock
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/coke.htm (Cocaine)

LANGUAGE CREATES STIGMA

RE: Cocaine addicts in detox soaring (Free Press, Dec. 20).

At first glance, I thought that this story would be just another 
attack by a member of the press against people with substance-use 
problems and the professionals who try to assist them.

Sensationalized headlines and opening statements using stereotypical 
terminology such as "drunks... drunk tank... and dopers" do more harm 
than good.

Stigma created by this type of language creates social barriers, 
moralizing a public health issue and maintaining negative attitudes 
towards people who need help, not branding.

Addiction does not discriminate, people do, and phrases such as those 
used by this writer do more harm than good.

Other than that, it was a good story, but please, just lose the 
negative language.

Don Crocock, CEAP

Certified Employee Assistance Professional

St. Catharines, Ont.
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MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman