Forensic Mental Health Care: A Case Study Approach

Mental Health Nursing,  Apr 2000  by Hughes, Angela

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Forensic Mental Health Care: A Case Study Approach Dave Mercer, Tom Mason, Mick McKeown, Ged McCann (eds) 1999 ISBN 0 443 06140 8

This innovative book is a welcome addition to the forensic field. The twelve chapters cover fairly predictable topics that one would expect in a book of this kind, including personality disorders and community care. However, the content of the chapters is less predictable and highly rewarding to read.

Several case studies are included in each chapter. The main effect of this is to humanise the forensic patient. It also provides a direct challenge to the "culture of secrecy" which is so easily associated with forensic institutions.

All the case studies are presented in the context of a theoretical framework creating a focused, concentrated atmosphere. Futhermore, several theoretical frameworks are outlined, enabling the reader to easily assimilate a range of perspectives.

Most impressive is the reflective nature of the contributors. The complex range of factors that can contribute to "treatment failures" are discussed readily, lending further to the spirit of openness conveyed by this book. The contributors come from a range of disciplines and areas, and all manage to write in an accessible and concise style.

One drawback of the book is its layout: each chapter seems to contain several "sub-chapters" which could be more clearly identified as part of the main chapter.

In their attempts to bridge the "theory-practice" gap, the editors have gone a considerable way to achieve this. This is a book which could be picked up and referred to in the practice area, providing both practical ideas informed by theory, and inspiring some therapeutic optimism!

Copyright Community Psychiatric Nurses Association Apr 2000
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