Schizophrenia: In Search of Dignity for Schizophrenic People Book

Schizophrenics are often in the news, usually because of behavior that alarms and outrages the ordinary citizen. But that isn't the whole story. Those who work closely with schizophrenic patients, like social workers and psychiatric nurses, often report that they seem to have extra perceptions "frightening empathy" or "uncanny sensitivity" alongside the negative aspects of the condition. Peter Chadwick presents the fascinating case studies of some schizophrenics with whom he has worked. He raises the important question of whether schizophrenia really should be viewed as a disease like polio that we want to eradicate, or whether schizophrenia actually endows its sufferers with valuable qualities we should be nurturing. These detailed accounts of subjective experiences will be required reading for anyone working with or contemplating work with schizophrenics, especially psychologists, psychiatrists, nurses and social workers.Read More