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Language and Change: How Do We Move Forward?

Language and Change: How Do We Move Forward?. ADAA Learning Collaborative August 29, 2012. What is Language?. A body of words and the systems for their use common to a people who are of the same community or nation, the same geographical area, or the same cultural tradition

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Language and Change: How Do We Move Forward?

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  1. Language and Change: How Do We Move Forward? ADAA Learning Collaborative August 29, 2012

  2. What is Language? • A body of words and the systems for their use common to a people who are of the same community or nation, the same geographical area, or the same cultural tradition • Any set orsystem of such symbols as used in a more or less uniform fashion by a number of people, who are thus enabled tocommunicate intelligibly with one another. http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/language

  3. Others’ Thoughts on Language There is more than a verbal tie between the words common, community, and communication.... Try the experiment of communicating, with fullness and accuracy, some experience to another, especially if it be somewhat complicated, and you will find your own attitude toward your experience changing. John Dewey

  4. Others’ Thoughts on Language For me, words are a form of action, capable of influencing change. Ingrid Bengis Thought is the blossom; language the bud; action the fruit behind it. Ralph Waldo Emerson

  5. Questions for Discussion • Why do we need a change in language? • Who are the audiences for a changed language? • What kinds of language changes do we need? • What new terms or words should we use to replace specific words we use now? • How do we promote changes in language? • Why do we have difficulty using new language?

  6. Why Do We Need a Change in Language? • Better understanding of the neurobiology of addiction • Better understanding of risk factors for the development of substance use disorders • Current language often stigmatizing

  7. Source: Dennis M et al, Evaluation Review, 2009

  8. Who Are the Audiences for a Changed Language? • Those making decisions about funding for services • Policymakers • Family members • Healthcare providers including all of us • The media • The public at large • Researchers and academics • People in recovery • People with active addiction

  9. How do other chronic health conditions handle language? • People with diabetes • Living with diabetes • Living with HIV • Getting healthy • Learn and live • Taking control of asthma

  10. How does the substance abuse treatment system handle language? • Focus on labeling people • Judgmental • Disrespectful • Less than • Punitive

  11. “Abuse” • Long implied the willful commission of an abhorrent (wrong and sinful) act • Involving forbidden pleasure • Come to characterize those of violent and contemptible character-those who abuse their partners, their children or animals • Defined in terms of immorality, not as health problem

  12. Recovery SAMHSA: • A process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self-directed life, and strive to reach their full potential.

  13. Other Alternative Terminology • Person/persons experiencing an alcohol/drug problem • Living with addiction • In recovery • Recovery maintenance, sustained recovery maintenance • Recovery advocates • Recovery plans

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