Behavioral science courses. Their function and relevance in medical education.

Abstract

This paper attempts to examine a current trend in undergraduate medical education: the introduction of behavioral science courses in the curriculum of medical schools.^29,30,33It will discuss the definition, relevance to medical education, aims and purposes of such a course and indicate the questions which first need to be asked before embarking on such innovation.¹¹A detailed proposal for a behavioral science course is offered with a rationale for the inclusion of specific material. <h3>Some Current Problems in Medical Education</h3> About 10 years ago a group of eminent educators outlined minimum standards for preclinical courses in psychiatry. It was suggested that these courses include material on personality development and psychopathology to be given by clinicians.^9,17Since that time there has been an increasing interest in broadening the scope of such courses to include behavioral science content. Some of the historical reasons for