Reactions to insanity : a study of stigma, discrimination and labelling in relation to present and former psychiatric patients
Abstract
The thesis is organised around an empirical investigation of
the relationship between residents of a Hertfordshire village
and people who are, or who have been, patients at a nearby
psychiatric hospital, some of whom regularly venture into the
village to use local facilities.
The research employs the method of participant observation and
draws upon the discourse analytic approach of Potter and
Wetherell, together with the rhetorical perspective of Michael
Billig. In particular, the research focuses upon the discursive
practices of local people, practices which function to sustain,
amplify or minimise difference between themselves and others
who are patients. The critical theory of Jürgen Habermas is
drawn upon to complement and extend the discourse analysis
approach, which receives critical evaluation.
In addition, the time-geography of Alan Pred is employed as an
heuristic for the representation of journeys of patients in the
village. The historical dimension of the relationship between
village and hospital is addressed by drawing upon Parish
Council minutes and local newspaper reports.
The thesis contains a conceptual investigation of public
anxieties concerning mental disorder, an overview and
discussion of the contemporary relevance of the labelling
perspective, and a review of relevant literature. In addition
it provides an exploration of methodological and textual issues
Publication date
1992Published version
https://doi.org/10.18745/th.14154https://doi.org/10.18745/th.14154