Why Are Shrinks Called Shrinks?

Why are psychiatrists and psychologists called shrinks? It's a jocular reference to the ritual practice in certain tribal societies of literally shrinking the heads of one's vanquished enemies. The term shrink was adopted as a joking reference to psychotherapists in the 1960s.

Why are psychologist called shrinks?

“Shrink” is another term used to refer to mental health professionals, including psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists. The word “shrink” comes from “head shrinkage,” which refers to the ancient practice of shrinking the head of a conquered enemy.

What are therapists called shrinks?

The word "shrink" has long been a common way of referring to psychotherapists, including both psychiatrists and psychologists.