Chapter 17: Problem 3

Why is psychosurgery controversial? Why is it used?

Short Answer

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Psychosurgery is controversial due to its potential risks, uncertain long-term effects, and past misuse. However, it's used because it can provide relief for individuals with severe mental illnesses that haven't responded to other treatments.

Step by step solution

Define Psychosurgery

Psychosurgery is a type of neurosurgery, or surgery that involves the brain or other parts of the nervous system. It was developed to treat serious mental illnesses and disorders that could not be managed effectively with other treatments. It involves the removal or alteration of parts of the brain to change behavior or mood.

Discuss the Controversy

Psychosurgery is a controversial treatment for several reasons. Firstly, it's an invasive procedure with potential risks including infection, bleeding, and negative effects on cognition or personality. Secondly, since the brain is not fully understood, the long-term effects of altering its structure are uncertain. Lastly, the history of psychosurgery has aspects of misuse, with procedures performed on patients without their informed consent, or used to control rather than treat patients.

Explain its Use

Despite the controversy, psychosurgery is still used because, in some severe cases, it's the only treatment that has proven effective. Particularly, when other treatments like psychotherapy or medication have failed, certain forms of psychosurgery can provide relief for individuals with disorders such as severe obsessive-compulsive disorder or treatment-resistant depression.

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Why is psychosurgery controversial? Why is it used?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Define Psychosurgery

Discuss the Controversy

Explain its Use

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