Mad in America

Mad in America: Bad Science, Bad Medicine, and the Enduring Mistreatment of the Mentally Ill is a book by medical journalist Robert Whitaker published in 2002. It explores the history of the treatment of the mentally ill in the United States and posits that it has been characterized by poor science, ineffective or harmful treatments, and a persistent lack of progress in care quality. Whitaker critiques the psychiatric profession and the pharmaceutical industry, arguing that commercial and professional interests have shaped treatment practices in ways that have often worsened the plight of those with mental illness.

Overview

The book begins with a historical overview of mental illness treatment in the United States, starting from the colonial period and moving through the development of state asylums in the 19th century, the rise of psychoanalysis in the early 20th century, and the advent of psychopharmacology in the mid-20th century. Whitaker argues that each of these eras introduced treatments that were initially hailed as revolutionary but later proved to be ineffective or harmful. He pays particular attention to the modern era of psychiatric medication, critiquing the evidence base for the efficacy and safety of antidepressants, antipsychotics, and other drugs.

Critical Reception

Mad in America has received a mixed reception. Some reviewers praised the book for shedding light on the dark history of psychiatric treatment and for challenging the dominant paradigms of mental health care. Others criticized Whitaker for overreaching in his conclusions, lacking balance in his critique, or misunderstanding the science of psychiatry. Despite these criticisms, the book has been influential, contributing to ongoing debates about psychiatric medication, the role of the pharmaceutical industry in mental health care, and the future of psychiatry.

Impact and Legacy

The book has had a significant impact on the mental health community, advocacy groups, and the broader public discourse on mental health care. It has been credited with helping to spark a reevaluation of the use of psychiatric drugs and to inspire a movement towards more holistic and patient-centered approaches to mental health care. Whitaker has continued to explore these themes in subsequent books and articles, becoming a prominent critic of conventional psychiatric practices.

See Also

• Psychiatry
• Mental illness
• History of mental health
• Psychopharmacology
• Robert Whitaker (author)