Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
medicalize
verb
/ˈmɛdɪkəlaɪz/
Definition
To turn something into a medical issue or to treat it as a medical condition.
Examples
- The tendency to medicalize normal childhood behaviors has raised concerns among parents and educators.
- Some experts argue that we should not medicalize every aspect of aging.
- The act of medicalizing mental health issues can lead to better access to treatment.
Meaning
The act of framing a concept, behavior, or process as a medical problem that requires medical attention or treatment.
Synonyms
- pathologize
- clinicalize
- therapeuticize