Eve C. Johnstone

Kraepelin, who in 1896 first defined the disorder now known as schizophrenia, appreciated that there were many difficulties with the concept, and believed that, since the cause of the disorder was essentially unknown, there could be no rational treatment. This authoritative 1999 text provides a wide-ranging survey of the disorder, including an extensive account of what was known about the underlying biology. The main part of the book covers clinical aspects, including differential and dual diagnosis, and treatment and management problems, particularly in relation to care in the community. Topics covered include brain imaging, genetics, pharmacology and neuropsychology, as well as chapters on health economics and forensic issues. The authors have extensive clinical experience with schizophrenia patients, and this book, which is unusual in its breadth and its concern for social and community issues, will be a valuable reference for all psychiatrists, and other health professionals involved in the management of schizophrenia.

Schizophrenia is the archetypal form of madness. Schizophrenia is a common disorder and has a devastating effect on sufferers and their families-patients typically hear voices in their heads and hold bizarre beliefs. The schizophrenic patient presented to the public in sensational press reports and lurid films bears little resemblance to reality of the illness. This book describes what schizophrenia is really like, how the illness progresses, and the treatments that have been applied. It also summarizes the most up-to-date knowledge available about the biological bases of this disorder. Finally it attempts to give some idea of what it is like to have schizophrenia and what this disorder tells us about the relationship between mind and brain. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.