In Two Minds: A Casebook of Psychiatric Ethics 2001

This book provides a practical problem-solving manual for psychiatric ethics. Written in a lively and accessible style, it draws on a series of detailed case histories to illustrate the centrality of ethical reasoning as a key competency in clinical work and research in psychiatry. Topics include risk, danger and confidentiality; liability judgements; coercive treatment and mental health legislation; consent for genetic testing; issues in child and adolescent psychiatry; cross-cultural and gender issues; rational and irrational suicide; shared decision-making in teams; and the growing role of the patient voice in psychiatry. Key ethical concepts are carefully introduced and explained. There are separate chapters on teaching psychiatric ethics, including a sample seminar and writing a research ethics proposal. Each case history and discussion is followed by a critical commentary by a practitioner with relevant experience.