Forensic Psychiatry, Race and Culture [Paperback]

Forensic psychiatry is the discipline which distinguishes the 'mad' from the 'bad', but are its values inherently racist? Why are individuals from non-Western backgrounds over-represented statistically in those diagnosed with schizophrenia and other serious illnesses? The authors argue that the values on which psychiatry is based are firmly rooted in ethnocentric Western culture, with profound implications for individual diagnosis and systems of care.
Through detailed exploration of the history of psychiatry, current clinical issues and present public policy, this powerful book traces the growth of a system in which non-conformity to the prevailing cultural norms risks alienation and diagnosis of mental disorder.Through exploration of the history of psychiatry, current clinical issues and present public policy, this book traces the growth of a system in which non-conformity to the prevailing cultural norms, risks alienation and diagnosis of mental disorder.'This is an inspiring read, and to be highly recommended to anyone working in the field of forensic care at any level, and in primary mental health care.' - Mental Health CareIntroduction, Suman Fernando; Part 1 Background, Suman Fernando; Chapter 1 Race and cultural difference; Chapter 2 Mental illness and criminality; Chapter 3 Modern schizophrenia and racism; Chapter 4 Anger, criminality and dangerousness; Part 2 Clinical issues, David Ndegwa; Chapter 5 Introduction; Chapter 6 Race and crime; Chapter 7 Problems with research; Chapter 8 What is the right diagnosis?; Chapter 9 Clinical practice; Part 3 Public policy, Melba Wilson; Chapter 10 Public perceptions: the psychology of image; Chapter 11 The institutional framework; Chapter 12 Expectations and experiences; Chapter 13 Public attitudes, private responses; Part 4 Future prospects, Suman Fernando, David Ndegwa, Melba Wilson; Chapter 14 The challenge; Chapter 15 Opportunities for change;SumlÉ