Person-first language and addiction literature: The presence of labeling and emotional language in counseling articles

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the rate and frequency of labeling language, emotional language, and person-first language (PFL) toward individuals with substance use disorders and addictions in articles published in 24 counseling journals. Of the 249 articles reviewed, 61.04% did not fully adhere to PFL, while 34.54% included labeling language and 51.41% included emotional language. A significant positive correlation was found between the use of labeling language and emotional language. Implications for practicing counselors, counselor educators, and researchers are provided. We advocate for the use of PFL toward those with addictions in published works and in conversations.