The 'New Oxford Textbook of Psychiatry' is one of the leading reference
works in this field. Bringing together over 200 chapters from the leading
figures in the discipline, it presents a comprehensive account of clinical
psychiatry, with reference to its scientific basis and to the patient's
perspective throughout. In the 8 years since publication of the first edition,
many new and exciting developments have occurred in the biological sciences,
which are having a major impact on how we study and practice psychiatry. In
addition, psychiatry has fostered closer ties with philosophy, and these are
leading to healthy discussions about how we should diagnose and treat mental
illness. This new edition recognizes these and other developments. Throughout,
accounts of clinical practice are linked to the underlying science, and to the
evidence for the efficacy of treatments. Physical and psychological treatments,
including psychodynamic approaches, are covered in depth. The history of
psychiatry, ethics, public health aspects, and public attitudes to psychiatry
and to patients are all given due attention.
