Perceived injustice: a historical and clinical review of a useful concept for psychiatry

Abstract

Objective Perceived injustice, a concept that arose in pain medicine, refers to an individual’s experiences and perceptions of victimisation from injuries resulting in chronic pain. Here, we have undertaken a historical and clinical review on the role of perceived injustice medicine in psychiatry and a systematic review on psychotherapeutic interventions for perceived injustice. Method For the systematic review, two studies were identified from a search of six databases. Results Though evidence is limited, psychotherapeutic interventions show promise in addressing perceived injustice and associated symptomatology. Conclusion Perceived injustice is a concept which may have great potential utility to psychiatry, particularly in occupational and medicolegal areas. Interventions addressing perceived injustice may help improve clinical outcomes.