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Ethical Issues in Psychosurgery: A Comprehensive Exploration

Yukio Mishima

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Published in Ethical Issues In Psychosurgery (Psychology Revivals)

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Psychosurgery, the surgical intervention on the brain to treat mental illnesses, has a long and controversial history. As a field that has evolved over decades, it has sparked numerous ethical debates surrounding its potential benefits and risks.

Ethical Issues in Psychosurgery (Psychology Revivals)
by John Kleinig
5 out of 5
Language : English
File size : 2974 KB
Text-to-Speech : Enabled
Screen Reader : Supported
Enhanced typesetting : Enabled
Word Wise : Enabled
Print length : 213 pages

'Ethical Issues in Psychosurgery: Psychology Revivals' delves into the complexities of psychosurgical interventions, providing a comprehensive exploration of the historical, ethical, and psychological implications associated with this controversial practice.

Historical Context

The concept of psychosurgery originated in the early 20th century, with the of lobotomy as a treatment for mental illness. However, concerns about its efficacy and potential side effects led to a decline in its use by the mid-20th century.

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in psychosurgery, particularly in the development of more targeted and refined techniques. However, the ethical issues surrounding its use remain unresolved.

Ethical Considerations

The ethical implications of psychosurgery revolve around several key issues:

Consent and Autonomy: The decision to undergo psychosurgery should be made by the individual patient, after fully understanding the potential risks and benefits.
Efficacy and Safety: Psychosurgery should only be performed when other treatment options have failed and the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
Long-Term Effects: The long-term consequences of psychosurgery, both positive and negative, must be carefully considered before performing the procedure.
Social Stigma: Individuals who undergo psychosurgery may face social stigma and discrimination, impacting their quality of life.

Psychological Implications

In addition to ethical concerns, psychosurgery raises psychological issues that require careful consideration:

Alteration of Personality: Psychosurgery can have a significant impact on personality and emotional functioning, potentially leading to changes in behavior, decision-making, and self-awareness.
Cognitive Impairment: Some psychosurgical procedures can impair cognitive abilities, such as memory, attention, and problem-solving.
Emotional Blunting: Psychosurgery can diminish the intensity of emotions, potentially affecting the patient's relationships and quality of life.

'Ethical Issues in Psychosurgery: Psychology Revivals' provides a comprehensive examination of the ethical and psychological implications of this complex field. By exploring the history, controversies, and ongoing debates surrounding psychosurgery, this book offers valuable insights for professionals, researchers, and policymakers.

As the field of psychosurgery continues to evolve, it is essential to engage in ongoing ethical discussions to ensure that any interventions are performed with the highest standards of care and respect for human rights and dignity.

Ethical Issues in Psychosurgery (Psychology Revivals)

by John Kleinig

5 out of 5