Chapter 12 Chapter Overview

This chapter assesses some of the most prevalent criticisms against Western biomedical models of psychiatry, specifically those advanced by marginalized groups that have experienced the mental health care system at one time or another.

Throughout the chapter the role of the psychiatric system and biomedical models in perpetuating violence, oppression, and suffering within institutions and in the broader society are discussed. The role of “Mad Studies” in addressing these concerns and in pushing for additional, more practical, reforms in psychiatry and in society is also underscored.

From the chapter, it is evident that any attempt to address the injustices inherent in the current psychiatric system would require a planned and strategic network that fosters continuous mental health education, research, policy and advocacy.