Abnormal Behavior. Pitfalls of Our Minds. An Introduction to the Study of Abnormal and Anti-Social Behavior.

Abstract

This volume contains the results of the authors' study of cases observed in the psychiatric service in Bellevue Hospital. These cases were usually conduct disorders showing various forms of abnormal behavior, resulting from social maladjustment and in many instances terminating in delinquency or insanity. In the course of the book, 137 cases are reported in literary style, technical terms being avoided as much as possible. The book is especially adapted to social workers, probation officers, parents and teachers rather than to the technical psychiatrist. It is not, however, adapted for the general reader, since comprehension will require more than ordinary knowledge of modern psychiatry and abnormal psychology. Throughout the discussion the authors show an excellent balance and good judgment as to that which is proved in psychanalysis, physiology and pathology. They wisely reject much of the advanced interpretation that does not rest on any solid basis of proved fact.