Disrespect is experienced in healthcare with some frequency. It may affect patients, family, visitors, students, healthcare workers and providers.
Risk factors for disrespect:
(1) belonging to a target group (see below)
(2) poor training and supervision
(3) weak health system
(4) lack of accountability
(5) lack of redress on the part of the disrespected
(6) lack of sensitivity or awareness on the part of the perpetuator (cultural pattern)
(7) abusive organization
Targets of disrespect may include:
(1) a pregnant woman, especially during childbirth
(2) an elderly adult
(3) someone mentally-ill or demented
(4) poor or ill-kept
(5) mentally retarded
(6) presence of visible malformation or physical defect
(7) member of different racial group
(8) social outcast or someone with an alternative lifestyle (stigmatized)
(9) prisoner
(10) inability to communicate with (including language)
(11) anyone perceived as weak
Manifestation of disrespect may include:
(1) body language
(2) verbal language (insults, slurs, etc)
(3) excessive force
(4) physical abuse
(5) failure to consult or ask consent
(6) lack of concern about feelings, modesty or comfort
