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"Non-compliance": meaningful construct or destructive, sticky, stigmatizing label?
1Department of Medical Psychology, Leicester General Hospital.
Abstract:
The "(non-) compliance" is critically reviewed in term of both published research and clinical experience. Underlying assumptions are examined, and assessment problems and relevant theoretical models briefly reviewed. The Self-Regulation Model is outlined in some detail as a basis for both clinical interventions and research. Attention is drawn to the potential for prejudice and stereotyping as a result of the application of a negative evaluative label like "non-compliance". It is concluded that "(non-) compliance" is a mythical construct and proposed that the evaluatively neutral, non-judgmental, term self-management behaviours be substituted. Directions for further research are outlined.
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