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