Biological psychiatry

Biological psychiatry has dominated psychiatric thinking for the past 40 years, but the knowledge base of the discipline has increased substantially more recently, particularly with advances in genetics and neuroimaging. This third edition has been thoroughly updated taking into account these developments. As in the earlier editions of the book, there are comprehensive reviews and explanations of the latest advances in neurochemistry, neuroanatomy, genetics and brain imaging--descriptions not only of methodologies but also of the application of these in clinical settings. It is within this context that there is a considerable emphasis in the book on brain.behaviour relationships both within and without the clinical setting. This edition has been enhanced by the inclusion of new chapters, one on anxiety and another on motivation and the addictions. The chapter that relates to treatments has been extended to include the latest information on brain stimulation techniques. The overall book is well illustrated in order to help with an understanding of the text. This book is strongly recommended for all practising psychiatrists and trainees wishing for an up-to-date, authoritative, easy to digest and acessible review of the latest advances and conceptualizations in the field. It will also appeal to neurologists interested in neuropsychiatry and biological psychiatry or the psychiatric aspects of neurological disorders, as well as other practising clinicians (psychologists, social workers, nurses) in the mental health field.

Principles of brain function and structure : 1. genetics, physiology, and chemistry -- Principles of brain function and structure : 2. anatomy -- Important brain behavior relationships -- Classifications and clinical investigations -- Personality disorders -- The anxiety disorders -- The schizophrenias -- The affective disorders -- The addictions and disorders of motivation -- The epilepsies -- The dementias -- Biological treatments -- Epilogue : toward a brain-based classification scheme in psychiatry.