PhD Scientific Days 2025

Poster Session I. - N: Health Sciences

Inclusive Language Guides in Health Care and Academia

Name of the presenter

Petrezselyem Péter

Institute/workplace of the presenter

Institute of Languages for Specific Purposes, Semmelweis University

Authors

Péter Petrezselyem¹, Dr. Alexandra Zimonyi-Bakó¹, Dr. Barbara Marshall¹

1: Institute of Languages for Specific Purposes, Semmelweis University

Text of the abstract

Title: Inclusive Language Guides in Health Care and Academia

Introduction
Effective communication is essential in healthcare and academia, especially when addressing individuals from diverse backgrounds. Inclusive language builds trust, promotes safety, and fosters understanding. While some countries use inclusive language guides (ILGs), Hungary currently lacks such tools. This project focuses on reviewing international ILGs to explore how similar resources could be adapted locally.

Aims
The aim was to collect and analyze existing ILGs and offer suggestions for Hungarian versions. We focused on how these guides can improve communication with patients, students, and colleagues from minority or vulnerable groups.

Methods
In a pilot study, we collected ILGs from international sources, mainly in English. With the help of two supervisors, we analyzed their structure, style, and approach. I contributed by gathering and organizing materials and helping compare academic and healthcare examples. Content analysis was supported by MaxQDA and Sketch Engine software to explore recurring patterns and typical terms.

Results
ILGs vary in tone and format, but all aim to support respectful and clear communication. Healthcare guides focus on empathy and patient-centered care, while academic ones stress fairness and sensitivity. Key differences were found in structure, content, and target audience.

Conclusion
This research lays the groundwork for Hungarian ILGs in healthcare and academia. Adapting international examples can help create tools that support equality and improve communication outcomes.

Funding
This research was supported by the EKÖP undergraduate research scholarship. No external funding was received.

Péter Petrezselyem
petrezselyem.peter@stud.semmelweis.hu
Semmelweis University

Supervisors: Dr. Alexandra Zimonyi-Bakó, Dr. Barbara Marshall

Preferred presentation format: Poster