Critical Psychiatry : A New and Necessary School

In light of the current conflicts and ambiguity in the mental health field, the author proposes a new catalytic force or school called Critical Psychiatry. It will formulate and implement policy and pinpoint obstacles to the development of rational mental health programs, whether the obstacles are within the field or outside it. Synthesizing scientific knowledge with humanitarian considerations, it will consider such major issues as the validity and legitimacy of the mental health field, equitable distribution of care, and appropriate, coordinated roles for those who give care. It must be action-oriented, the author says. It will he particularly concerned with society's needs and demands on psychiatry and the behavioral sciences and, conversely, the impact of developments in those fields on society.