Independence
Independence (In-de-pen-dence)
Independence (pronounced as /ɪndɪˈpɛndəns/) is a term often used in various fields of study, including medicine, psychology, and sociology. It refers to the state of being self-reliant, free from outside control, or not depending on another's authority.
Etymology
The term "independence" originates from the late Middle English (in the sense 'ability to stand alone, state of not being influenced'). It is derived from the Latin word 'independere', with 'in-' meaning 'not' and 'dependere' meaning 'to hang from'.
Medical Context
In a medical context, independence often refers to a patient's ability to perform activities of daily living without assistance. This includes tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, toileting, transferring (walking) and continence. The level of a patient's independence can be a key indicator of their overall health status and recovery progress.
Related terms include:
- Activities of Daily Living (ADLs): Basic self-care tasks, often used as a measure of a person's functional status.
- Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs): More complex tasks that require a higher level of cognitive and physical function.
- Rehabilitation: A treatment or treatments designed to facilitate the process of recovery from injury, illness, or disease to as normal a condition as possible.
Psychological Context
In psychology, independence can refer to emotional independence, which is the ability to maintain one's emotional stability and mental well-being without the need for outside validation or support.
Related terms include:
- Emotional Intelligence: The ability to identify, use, understand, and manage emotions in positive ways.
- Self-Efficacy: Belief in one's ability to succeed in specific situations or accomplish a task.
Sociological Context
In sociology, independence often refers to social independence, which is the ability to function and make decisions without reliance on others.
Related terms include:
- Autonomy: The capacity of a rational individual to make an informed, un-coerced decision.
- Self-Reliance: Reliance on one's own capabilities, judgment, or resources.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Independence
- Wikipedia's article - Independence
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