Language, disfigurement, stigma and clothing

Abstract

This editorial recognises that the language we use shapes the encounters we have with children, young people and their families. The words we choose carry power to support, label, positively affect or diminish self-esteem. The words we select either consciously or unconsciously have impact. Words are culturally, contextually and temporally bound. It argues that words are political, shifting both in response to situations and in order to reframe situations.