Schizophrenia: The Positive Perspective

Peter K. Chadwick has lectured in psychology for the universities of Liverpool, Strathclyde, Birkbeck and Goldsmiths Colleges, London, and also for the Open University. He was Professor of Community Psychology at Boston University from 1991 to 1994. He retired from teaching in 2006 and was awarded the DSc by the University of Bristol in 2007 for his research over the past four decades

"This excellent book is written by a psychologist who has experience psychosis. His own case history and that of others should be essential reading for both trainees and graduates in the Mental Health Field. The Accounts and the Commentaries will be a useful resource for all teachers and students who are interested in countering reductionistic tendencies in the understanding and therapy of mental illness" – Brian Martindale, Consultant Psychiatrist, Early Intervention in Psychosis Service, Northumberland Tyne and Wear NHS Trust"Peter's writings have, to my mind, been some of the most moving and inspirational in the field of mental health." - Jerome Carson"Emphasising a positive perspective on schizophrenia, this book brings a breath of fresh air to thinking about mental health...I recommend it to all healthcare professionals." - Nursing Standard, 25 [21], Jan 2011

• Introduction: In Defence of Spirituality, Mysticism and Madness. Demystifying Madness and Mystifying Sanity. Parker, Cannabis and Altered States – A Positive View. Hammond, Cannabis and Altered States – The Dark Side. Getting in to Psychosis: The Story from the Inside. Getting Out of Psychosis: Hints and Strategies. Thinking at the Borderline: The ‘Deep Music’ Theory of Reality. Desmond: Comedian Mystic. Ivo: Fugitive from Crassness. Denys: Adventures in Meaning. Reflections on the Biographical Sketches. On the Acceptance and Emotional Understanding of Psychotic Thought. Issues in Diagnosis, Therapy and Understanding. Conclusions and Overview.