Includes bibliographical references (pages 201-215) and index.
Aimed at students and general readers, this volume provides an overview of what is currently known about mental illness. In the early part of the book, medical writer Thompson traces the understanding and treatment of mental illness through the ages and defines the modern biomedical model and the scientific discoveries informing it. Later chapters address controversial issues such as involuntary commitment and health insurance discrimination. Additional references found at the back of the volume include annotated primary documents, a timeline, a glossary, and suggestions for further reading.