Altered States of Consciousness and Mental Health: A Cross-Cultural Perspective [Hardcover]

This volume presents various perspectives on altered states of consciousness and mental health and places them within the boundaries of cross-cultural psychology. Part One considers theoretical and methodological issues in the study of altered states of consciousness; Parts Two and Three link altered states of consciousness and mental health by focusing on both its therapeutic and pathological aspects. The final section concentrates on models highlighting a variety of paradigms and diverse methodological approaches.This volume presents various perspectives on altered states of consciousness and mental health and places them within the boundaries of cross-cultural psychology. Part One considers theoretical and methodological issues in the study of altered states of consciousness; Parts Two and Three link altered states of consciousness and mental health by focusing on both its therapeutic and pathological aspects. The final section concentrates on models highlighting a variety of paradigms and diverse methodological approaches.PART ONE: ALTERED STATES OF CONSCIOUSNESS AND MENTAL HEALTH: THEORETICAL AND METHODOLOGICAL ISSUES
The Cross-cultural Study of Altered States of Consciousness and Mental Health - Colleen A Ward
From Disease to Discourse - Michael Lambek
Remarks on the Conceptualization of Trance and Spirit Possession
PART TWO: ALTERED STATES OF CONSCIOUSNESS AND PSYCHOPATHOLOGY
`Ravished of a Fiend' - Simon Kemp
Demonology and Medieval Madness
Possession Syndrome in India - C R Chandra Shekar
Hypnosis, Demonic Possession and Multiple Personality - Nicholas P Spanos
Strategic Enactments and Disavowals of Responsibility for Actions
Possession and Exorcism - Psychopathology and Psychotherapy in a Magico-Religious Context - Colleen A Ward
PART THREE: THERAPEUTIC ASPECTS OF ALTERED STATES OF CONSCIOUSNESS
Religious Experiences l3$