Meta-topics in Psychiatry

This advanced seminar addresses "meta topics" vital to the clinical practice of psychiatry, but often neglected in traditional curriculums. Covered topics will include limitations of current psychiatric diagnostic methodologies, problems distinguishing psychiatric symptoms from normal human trait variations, paternalism and coercion in psychiatric practice, conflicts of interest and boundary violations, and the portrayal of mental illness in the media. Teaching will consist of lectures, discussion, media presentations, and the occasional field trip. Course is offered Fall, Winter, Spring and Summer quarters, Thursdays, 11 a.m., West Los Angeles Veterans affairs Hospital, Building 500. Prerequisite: consent of instructor.