Cesar A. Alfonso – författare

Tasman’s Psychiatry, 5th Edition, builds on the initial vision in prior editions of approaching psychiatric evaluation and care from an integrative bio-psycho-social-cultural perspective. It is designed to be an essential and accessible reference for readers at any level of experience. This editorial approach encompasses the importance of the first encounter between patient and clinician, followed by the complex task of beginning to develop a therapeutic relationship and to develop and implement a treatment plan in collaboration with the patient. The importance of increasing attention to the role of culture and social determinants of mental health is reflected both in specific chapters and in components of many chapters  throughout the book, especially in those pertaining to clinical evaluation, the therapeutic alliance, and treatment. The global scope of this edition is reflected throughout the book, including the section on psychiatric disorders where evaluation using both ICD 11 and DSM 5-TR is discussed. Most chapters are authored by experts from at least two different countries or continents, adding a critically important dimension which often is missing in major psychiatric textbooks. Tasman’s Psychiatry, 5th Edition, is an essential reference for all medical professionals and students who need a trusted reference or learning tool for psychiatry, psychology, clinical research, social work, counseling, therapy, and all others. 

This book addresses biopsychosocial and transcultural determinants of suicide by self-immolation, populations at risk throughout the world and prevention strategies specifically designed for young women in fragile environments. Self-immolation, the act of burning oneself as a means of suicide, is rare in high-income countries, and is usually a symbolic display of political protest among men that generally receives international media coverage. In contrast, in low- and-middle-income countries it is highly prevalent, primarily affects women, and may be one of the most common suicide methods in regions of Central and South Asia and parts of Africa. Psychiatric conditions, like adjustment disorders, traumatic stress disorders, and major depression, and family dynamics that include intimate partner violence, forced marriages, the threat of honor killings, and interpersonal family conflicts in a cultural context of war-related life events, poverty, forced migration and ethnic conflicts are important contributing factors. Written by over 40 academic psychiatrists from all continents, sociologists, and historians, the book covers topics such as region-specific cultural and historical factors associated with suicide; the role of religion and belief systems; marginalization, oppression, retraumatization and suicide risk; countertransference aspects of working in burn centers; responsible reporting and the media; and suicide prevention strategies to protect those at risk.