The theory and practice of movie psychiatry

Am J Psychiatry. 1987 Aug;144(8):996-1002. doi: 10.1176/ajp.144.8.996.

Abstract

The depiction of psychiatry in the movies has been a source of concern over the years to many in the profession who feel that a false picture of psychiatrists' work has been presented to the public. In fact, psychiatry in the movies has developed its own characteristics, which only occasionally intersect with those of the real-life profession. This paper outlines the methods and theories of the invented profession of movie psychiatry.

Publication types

  • Historical Article

MeSH terms

  • Drama*
  • History, 20th Century
  • Humans
  • Literature*
  • Motion Pictures* / history
  • Psychiatry*
  • United States