The prestigious Journal of Abnormal Psychology, a flagship publication of the American Psychological Association (APA), officially changed its name to the Journal of Psychopathology & Clinical Science in 2022. This significant rebranding, effective after 115 years under its previous title, was undertaken primarily to address concerns regarding the stigmatizing connotations of the term "abnormal" within the field of mental health. The move reflects an evolving consensus within the psychological community towards more inclusive and less pejorative language.
According to the APA and former Editor-in-Chief Angus MacDonald III, the term "abnormal" had acquired increasingly negative implications over time, contributing to the stigma experienced by individuals with mental health conditions. Surveys conducted prior to the change indicated that a significant majority, 88.9% of respondents, believed the term "Abnormal Psychology" increased mental health-related stigma. MacDonald emphasized that "names matter" and that the previous title inadvertently created a tension requiring resolution.
This renaming aligns with a broader trend across academic institutions and professional organizations to update terminology in psychology. Several university courses previously titled "Abnormal Psychology" have also transitioned to "Psychopathology" or "Psychological Disorders" to reflect contemporary understandings and reduce perceived degradation. The shift aims to establish "psychopathology" as a more universal and accurate term for the study of mental illness, framing it within the context of pathology or illness rather than deviation from a norm.
Despite the stated rationale, the name change has drawn criticism from some corners of the academic community. J.D. Haltigan, PhD, expressed strong disapproval on social media, stating:
"Make no mistake: this is Queer Theory masquerading as the 'Death of Normality' in once top psychopathology journal in the field. The 'Journal of Abnormal Psychology' was renamed the 'Journal of Psychopathology & Clinical Science' b/c 'abnormal' was too stigmatizing. Lunacy." Haltigan's tweet suggests a belief that the change is driven by ideological motives rather than purely clinical or scientific considerations.
The renaming underscores an ongoing dialogue within psychology about the power of language and its impact on public perception and patient well-being. While proponents view the change as a progressive step towards destigmatization and enhanced professional clarity, critics like Dr. Haltigan raise concerns about the underlying motivations and potential implications for the field's foundational concepts. The debate highlights the complex interplay between evolving societal values, academic rigor, and the practical application of psychological science.