Description
Book SynopsisThis is a spellbinding invitation into the world of the human mind that will change our perceptions of mental illness. Despite the growing body of scientific discoveries into the nature of the human mind, the stigma attached to mental illness remains deeply entrenched in the general public's consciousness.
Trade Review Stranger Than Fiction will be useful to people who want to learn more about mental illness, especially in its more dramatic forms. The book will provide perspective as well as information to family members, friends, and other acquainted with people who have a mental illness, and patients themselves may find it serviceable.
* Bulletin of the Menninger Clinic *
Stranger Than Fiction is a well-written and researched presentation of a variety of complex and psychopathologies, both individual and group. With excellent case material, buttressed by an easy and understandable flow that could be a source of intriguing and interesting reading to laypersons and professionals, it is packed with keen observations. It lends itself nicely to reading in segments, if necessary. Definitions, theories, medications, and references are all current and represent reasonably available resources. Brief tribute also is due the American Psychiatric Press, publisher in recent years of many readable volumes of increasing content quality and pleasing design. Stranger Then Fiction is commendable in every regard.
* JAMA *
The Feldmans offer a masterful review of the false memory syndrome, but the chapter does not stop there. They continue with sections on facilitated communication, satanic ritual abuse, and John Mack's alien abductions—topics that belong together. . . . Because Stranger Than Fiction is written for the general public, people will learn about the false memory syndrome who might not read a whole book on the topic. I highly recommend it. . . . The general public will greatly enjoy this book, especially the many fascinating case examples.
* False Memory Syndrome Newsletter *
Table of ContentsIntroduction: what is a lie of the mind? Phobias: fear itself. Somatoform disorders: what does my body have to do with it? Dissociative disorders: who am I today? False memory syndrome: accurate recollections or implanted histories? Delusions: Miss Annie's bucket and other unrealities. Hallucinations: seeing is believing. Mass hysteria: witch hunts and social contagion. Final thoughts: Treatment for lies of the mind: learning from the past, catapulting into the future. References and suggested readings. Index.
