The value of person-first language in forensic mental health services

Labels in healthcare influence perceptions, treatment and stigma. Although they can aid diagnosis and guide care, pejorative labels can dehumanise and perpetuate prejudice. Person-first language, which foregrounds the individual rather than a condition or behaviour, has been linked to reduced blame, stigma and social distance across mental health and forensic populations. Evidence suggests it may foster empathy, recovery-oriented attitudes and rehabilitation, while challenging essentialist and pessimistic views of mental illness and offending. Limitations include minimising structural coercion and lived experience. This editorial explores the evidence, mechanisms and practical applications of person-first language in forensic mental health, advocating cautious implementation and further research.