Psychosis, Psychoanalysis and Psychiatry in Postwar USA

Covering the last four decades of the 20th century, this book explores the unwritten history of the struggles between psychoanalysis and psychiatry in post war USA, inaugurated by the neo-somatic revolution which had profound consequences for the treatment of psychotic patients. Analysing and synthesising major developments in this critical and clinical field, Orna Ophir discusses how leading theories redefined what schizophrenia is, and how to treat it, offering a fresh interpretation of the nature and challenges of the psychoanalytic profession. The book also considers the internal dynamics and conflicts within mental health organizations, their theoretical paradigms and therapeutic practices.