Power of Language and Importance of Feedback Flashcards
(25 cards)
What does language construct in society?
Social reality
According to Foucault, language shapes how we define people, behaviors, and ‘truths’.
True or False: Words are neutral and do not carry assumptions or power.
False
Words carry assumptions, judgments, and power.
How can word choices impact individuals in health professions?
They can either stigmatize or validate
Word choices in health contexts can shape perceptions and treatment.
Reframe the statement: ‘She’s just attention-seeking.’
‘She’s seeking connection/support.’
This encourages empathy rather than implying manipulation.
What is meant by ‘Arbitrariness’ in language?
No inherent connection between words and their meaning
Example: ‘Compliance’ vs. ‘Concordance’.
Define ‘Ambiguity’ in the context of language.
Words can be interpreted in many ways
Example: ‘I feel better’ could refer to physical or emotional states.
What is ‘Abstraction’ in language?
Vague or generalized words obscure meaning
Example: ‘Difficult behaviour’ vs. ‘Refuses instructions during group tasks.’
List three improvements offered by concrete language.
- Accuracy
- Tailored care
- Shared understanding
How does naming experiences affect their legitimacy?
It gives them legitimacy
Examples include terms like ‘Postnatal depression’ and ‘Long COVID’.
What can biased language do to individuals?
Shame or diminish them
For example, using ‘clean’ after drug use implies they were ‘dirty’.
What is essential for cultural safety in healthcare language?
Avoiding terms like ‘non-compliant’, ‘aggressive’, ‘frequent flyer’
These terms can perpetuate stigma.
How do words define societal norms?
They define who is ‘normal’, ‘healthy’, ‘professional’
Health terms are often culturally constructed.
What does reappropriation mean in the context of marginalized groups?
Empowerment of marginalized groups
Examples include LGBTQIA+ and disability communities.
Differentiate between a claim and a demonstration.
- Claim: ‘We’ve got alignment’ (vague, abstract)
- Demonstration: ‘We’ve agreed finance will release the budget by Friday.’
What is the purpose of open questions?
Encourage storytelling, autonomy, and exploration
They show interest and reduce assumptions.
What are closed questions primarily used for?
Gathering facts, clarifying, or supporting in distress
They are efficient but can feel transactional.
Name three things to be mindful of when asking questions.
- Leading questions
- Narrow or academic phrasing
- Making it about yourself
What is the difference between fundamental and constructed reality?
- Fundamental: Based on fact, data, measurable truth
- Constructed: Based on values, culture, context
Provide an example of fundamental reality.
‘p-value is 0.03’ (statistical analysis)
This is based on measurable data.
Provide an example of constructed reality.
‘non-compliant’ (based on norms)
This term is shaped by social context.
What should feedback avoid when in the constructed world?
‘Right vs wrong’ framing
It should move from judgment to curiosity.
What are the characteristics of effective feedback?
- Invited (not imposed)
- Specific (linked to a clear experience)
- Impact-aware
- Collaborative
What to avoid in feedback?
- Absolute or judgmental statements
- Feedback that assumes superiority
- Unclear or vague assessments
Differentiate between problem-focused and solution-focused questions.
- Problem-focused: ‘How long has this been a problem?’
- Solution-focused: ‘What have you tried that worked?’
