Why Are Therapists Called Shrinks

 

Shrink is slang or an informal word used to refer to mental health professionals or therapists. In modern psychotherapy, therapists are referred to as shrinks due to their ability to help individuals shrink their problems and emotional concerns through therapy. Although it might be outdated, the word shrink was derived from the term “headshrinker”, describing the traditional healing practitioners, specifically those involving the use of shrunken human heads. It stems from the notion that counselors help people understand their minds and emotions, thus shrinking the mental concerns or conflicts they might be having. This article aims to help you understand more why therapists are referred to as shrinks, the origin of the word and the modern concerns about this term. 

Origin of the Word “Shrink”

American Psychiatric Association describes the word shrink as a short form for headshrinker. Literary refers to the practice of shrinking heads. Indigenous tribes of South America engaged in this practice as part of their ritual for centuries. The rituals focused on healing and other religious purposes. 

 

In ancient times, the ritual of head shrinking involved separating the skin and hair from the skull. Animal heads were boiled in herbal liquid; they then were turned inside out, and the fresh inside was removed. The head was then turned back and glued together. Hot rocks and sand were placed inside the head to preserve the features and shape. 

From “Head Shrinking” To “Shrink”

The question most of us ask is, “How did the head shrinking practice came to be associated with mental health?” first, the practice of head shrinking serves as a metaphor for the figurative process in therapy if shrinking a person’s problems by getting inside their head. Like how ancient tribes reduced the size of a head through painstaking, therapists work hard to eliminate the effects of mental health problems. Second, people with mental health problems have suffered from stigmas since others believe that they are dangerous; however, the stigma is due to a lack of understanding and fear. Likewise, in the indigenous tribes, the head-shrinking process was feared and misunderstood by European explorers. 

Concerns about the Word Shrink

The term “shrink” was used to devalue the work of psychologists. However, the slang also served a positive purpose as it acted as a mechanism for patients to reduce their fear and anxiety about the power of therapists over them. 

The good thing is that the term has slowly disappeared and is not mostly used currently to refer to mental health professionals. The stigma of mental illness has been largely reduced as professionals encourage people of speak openly about their mental health. Currently, therapists are viewed less as holders of power in therapeutic relationships and more as companions. 

Professional terminology and respect are crucial when talking about mental health and referring to therapists. Addressing them professional does not only appreciates the professionalism but also shows detailed understanding of the importance of mental health support. It is wise to address therapists with appropriate titles like psychologist, counselor, or psychotherapists. 

In conclusion, therapists have been referred to as “shrinks” for centuries. This is because their role is associated with the ancient tribes’ practice of head shrinking. They are said to shrink a person’s mental problems. However, the term has also been used to stigmatize professionalism and people with mental health problems. The good thing is that the word has faded away and is not commonly used in the modern world. It is wise to refer to therapists with respect and use titles that appreciate their good work of reducing the effects of mental health.