The prevalence of psychiatry in popular culture has coincided with the rise of amateur "armchair" psychiatristsand this often serves to muddy the waters about what, exactly, the field entails. For all the misconceptions, though, psychiatry is an endlessly fascinating field, charged with defining and recognizing mental illnesses, identifying methods for treating them, and discovering their causes and developing measures to prevent them.

Introductory Textbook of Psychiatry dispels common misunderstandings and delves into what makes this such an exciting discipline. Now in its seventh edition, this bestselling guide is organized along the lines of DSM-5 and has been updated to reflect changes to the manual, including new medications and therapies.

Rigorous in scope, Introductory Textbook of Psychiatry is nevertheless accessible and conversational in tone. It employs fascinating case vignettes, clinical pearls, self-assessment questions, and tables and figures as it offers a summary of:

The DSM-5 diagnostic system
The neurobiological basis of psychiatry
Interviewing and assessmentincluding specific questions that patients can be asked
The various psychiatric disorders
Legal issues
Psychiatric emergencies
Treatment

Initially developed for medical students and beginning residents, this guide is also a valuable reference for nurse practitioners, physician assistants, social workers, and psychologists. And because it has been edited to align with the Pocket Guide to Psychiatric Practice, it makes an excellent companion piece to that volume, as well.