Anthropology and psychiatry – perspectives on healing and metaphor

Abstract

Introduction Despite different theoretical backgrounds, psychiatry and anthropology, always maintained an enriched dialogue. The understanding of cultural conceptualizations of disease and healing shed light on the symbolic dimension and the role of metaphor in the healing systems. Objectives and aims To understand the effectiveness of the symbolic dimension and the role of metaphor in healing. To critically discuss the contribution of Anthropology to the field of Psychiatry. Methods Review of selected literature. Results Levi-Strauss (1958) formulates a theory of symbolic healing, where the myth plays a major role. The attempt to relive the experience through the reconstruction of the social myth allows its verbal expression. Without this language, the experience would be chaotic and inexpressible. The myth provides a coherent interpretation of the world system and thus enables a psychological manipulation of the sick organ. Recent studies suggest an hierarchical organization of bio-psycho-social levels on which different healing mechanisms act (Kirmayer, 2004). The metaphor, although it is a cognitive process, will mobilize motivational, emotional and even sensory aspects, working as an information vehicle between the different levels. Conclusions Symbolic dimension is a highly pervasive aspect in all healing systems, even the biomedical. The hierarchical organization of bio-psycho-social levels, provides a convenient way of conceptualizing the efficacy of different healing sistems, such as psychotherapy or shamanism.