The Social Nature of Mental Illness [Hardcover]

Dr. Leonard Bowers (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: June 5, 1998 | ISBN-10: 0415170028 | ISBN-13: 978-0415170024 | Edition: 1

Psychiatrists assert that mental illness is a physiological brain disorder. The anti-psychiatry movement refutes this on grounds of lack of evidence claiming that mental illness is socially defined. Len Bowers offers a rational, objective and philosophical critique of the theories of mental illness as a social construct and concludes that, though sometimes misguided, they cannot be wholly rejected. This critical scrutiny of a controversial and keenly-debated issue will be of interest to psychologists, social workers, psychiatrists, sociologists and professionals in paramedical disciplines.

Editorial Reviews

Review

This book is the most comprehensive treatment of the social constructionist approach to mental illness available. - William W. Eaton

The particular strength of this book is its ability to present both sides of this contemporary debate with clarity and precision ... it will therefore prove a valuable resource for those involved in mental health care and anyone wanting to consider the wider application of soical construct theory to particular contexts. - Contact

Product Details

• Hardcover: 232 pages
• Publisher: Routledge; 1 edition (June 5, 1998)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0415170028
• ISBN-13: 978-0415170024
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 5.8 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #6,725,184 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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