We’ve all been there: talking to some expert – a mechanic, a plumber, a doctor, a tech support person – who talks in some language, but who doesn’t sound as if they’re “speaking human.”
Jargon is the language, terms, abbreviations, etc., that special groups of people use that is specific to their area of expertise. It’s really useful when communicating within that specialized group. It condenses complex concepts and makes it easier to share ideas with less explanation.
The problem arises when “jargonists” forget that not everyone speaks that special language. Sometimes it’s just forgetfulness; sometimes people use this lingo to sound smart. Either way, such language prevents effective communication of ideas when specialists speak with people who aren’t familiar with their terms.
As everyone knows, one of the worst group of offenders includes doctors. Physicians, and other healthcare providers, are notorious for using medical words and phrases that sound foreign to everyday folks. While most don’t use big words and medical terms just to sound smart, they often seem to forget that the majority of non-medical people don’t understand medical jargon. With the best of intent, I’ve heard wonderful doctors and nurses speak earnestly and caringly to patients who nod their heads and claim understanding only to walk out without any idea as to what was really said.
That response, that head nod, is something we all do when somebody else is speaking over our heads. None of us want to appear ignorant. We nod and say, “Sure,” even though we really don’t have a clue. That’s a pretty normal response; no one wants to appear inadequate.
With this normal human response in mind, the responsibility should be upon the expert to remember that if they truly want to communicate an idea or an instruction, it’s their job to translate the jargon. “Speaking human” should be at the fore of their thoughts when talking with anyone who’s outside of their area of expertise.
Edward Leigh, MA, the Founder and Director of the center for Healthcare Communication created a great little video about this entitled, “Medical Jargon: Risks of Not Using Everyday Language.” It’s helpful for healthcare providers, but also worth a watch if you’re a healthcare consumer. I highly recommend it.
One last thought: if some expert is speaking jargon that you don’t understand, tell them “Thanks,” but ask if they would mind “Speaking Human.”
Dr. Gregg
Posted – February 11, 2014
