Stigma and chronic fatigue syndrome: Surveying a name change.

Journal of Disability Policy Studies, 14, 222-228 (2004).

Jason, L.A., Holbert, C., Torres-Harding, S., & Taylor, R.R.

DePaul University

Summary:
Considerable discussion has occurred over the  diagnostic label, chronic
fatigue syndrome. Many patient groups argue that this term trivializes the
seriousness of the syndrome. A Name Change Work group was appointed by the
CFS Coordinating Committee within the federal government to attempt to
change the name. This working group distributed a poll to patients and
health care providers to gain information about its recommendation to put
forth an umbrella term called Chronic Neuroendocrine Dysfunction Syndrome
and subtypes under it. In addition, the CFIDS Association, a national
self-help advocacy organization, distributed a questionnaire to a group of
health care providers concerning the recommendations for a new name. The
findings of both polls are presented.