1st edition: June 2008

Introduction to Adult Psychopathology is a textbook that examines the basic dimensions of psychopathology in depth, and thus may be useful for the student as well as the advanced professional. Each diagnostic category, based on the current diagnostic manuals DSM-IV, ICD-10 and PDM, is described, with clinical examples. Etiology and intervention are approached from each of the major orientations, that is cognitive, behavioral, family systems, psychoanalytic, existential as well as biological and socio-cultural. A unique feature of this book is the emphasis on psychoanalytic perspectives regarding psychopathological syndromes, and detailed review of psychoanalytic developments from the time of Freud until the present is provided for each diagnostic category. Also of interest is the discussion of various epistemological issues with regard to the study of psychopathology. Moreover, various issues concerning the definition of psychopathology are addressed, with emphasis on social and cultural aspects. Methods of assessment and research paradigms for the study of psychopathology are described. A historical review of the study of psychopathology from ancient times until the present is also included.