Forensic Psychiatry, Race and Culture

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.

Suman Fernando is Senior Lecturer in Mental Health at the Tizard Centre, University of Kent, and Honorary Consultant Psychiatrst at Chase Farm Hospital, Enfield., David Ndegwa is Clinical Director for Forensic Psychiatry at Lambeth Health Care NHS Trust., Melba Wilson is Race and Mental Health Adviser to MIND.

Introduction, 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;