Lee Robins

Lee Robins

Lee Nelken Robins (August 29, 1922 – September 25, 2009) was an American sociologist and epidemiologist known for her pioneering research in the field of psychiatric epidemiology. Her work significantly contributed to the understanding of the prevalence and causes of mental disorders.

Early Life and Education

Lee Robins was born in New Orleans, Louisiana. She earned her undergraduate degree from Radcliffe College in 1942 and later received her Ph.D. in Sociology from Harvard University in 1951.

Career

Robins began her career at Washington University in St. Louis in 1954, where she would spend the majority of her professional life. She was a professor of Social Science in Psychiatry and later became the head of the Department of Social Science in Psychiatry.

Contributions to Psychiatric Epidemiology

Robins is best known for her work on the Epidemiologic Catchment Area (ECA) Study, a large-scale research project that aimed to assess the prevalence of mental disorders in the United States. Her research provided critical insights into the lifetime prevalence of various psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia, depression, and substance abuse.

The St. Louis Epidemiologic Catchment Area Study

One of her most notable contributions was the St. Louis Epidemiologic Catchment Area Study, which was part of the larger ECA project. This study was instrumental in developing diagnostic criteria for mental disorders and influenced the creation of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-III).

Awards and Honors

Throughout her career, Robins received numerous awards and honors, including the Rema Lapouse Award from the American Public Health Association and the Paul Hoch Award from the American Psychopathological Association.

Personal Life

Robins was married to Eli Robins, a prominent psychiatrist who also made significant contributions to the field of psychiatry. They had three children together.

Legacy

Lee Robins' work has had a lasting impact on the field of psychiatric epidemiology. Her research methodologies and findings continue to influence contemporary studies on the prevalence and causes of mental disorders.

See Also

• Epidemiologic Catchment Area Study
• Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
• Psychiatric epidemiology
• Washington University in St. Louis