What is the process of medicalization?

The process of medicalization refers to the way in which certain behaviors, experiences, or conditions that were once considered to be normal human variations are increasingly defined and treated as medical issues. This transformation often involves labeling various aspects of human life—such as mental health concerns, aging, and even common life transitions—as conditions that require medical intervention or diagnosis.

The recognition of normal human conditions as medical conditions can lead to individuals seeking medical treatment or interventions that might not have been previously considered necessary. This shift has significant implications for how society views health, well-being, and the role of healthcare professionals.

For example, conditions like anxiety, depression, or obesity may have been seen historically as part of the human experience but can become medicalized through diagnosis and treatment protocols. By framing these experiences in medical terms, they often gain visibility and legitimacy, leading to the creation of specific treatment pathways and healthcare policies tailored to address them.