Many years ago, a young man formed an attachment to his mother that ended in her demise. Since he did not want to be replaced by her lover, he poisoned them both, and preserved her corpse. She then lived on within her son, Norman Bates.
Likely one of the most famous movies of all time, Psycho, illustrates a picture of mental illness through film but is it accurate? What exactly is psychopathology and what does the term “psychopath” actually mean? How does an individual become mentally ill, and is mental illness portrayed accurately in society?
Society seems to define mental illness in a variety of different ways. While some accuracy does exist, mental health problems are also misrepresented with erroneous portrayals of individuals dealing with mental health disorders. Both accurate and inaccurate depictions influence the perceptions of society as a whole, and it can directly affect those impacted by mental health issues.
A foundation of understanding in the area of mental health is needed not only to explore misconceptions, but also to learn accurate information associated with specific mental health disorders. While eating disorders, mood disorders, and psychotic disorders are depicted in magazines, movies, and television programs, the questions and concerns associated with their depictions often go unheard. Education and further discussion about these issues may help to reduce misinformation and adjust the perceptions of mental illness in the public at large.
Please join me at Psychopathology Demystified, a three-session course being taught at the Jefferson Market Library beginning on September 27, 2014 at 3:00 pm, as we further explore the meaning of psychopathology and mental health disorders.
In the first class, the demystification process will begin by exploring the definition of psychopathology as well as considering how society views mental health. The term “psychopath” will be discussed and discoveries about what this term actually means will be uncovered in the second class. Finally, in the last class session, mental health issues related to mood disorders, psychotic disorders, and eating disorders will be highlighted in order to clarify common misunderstandings related to specific diagnoses.
Dr. Paula Pisano Forgione is a licensed clinical psychologist in New York with a research background in eating disorders. Currently, Dr. Pisano Forgione serves as an administrative and clinical supervisor and treats patients suffering from anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, and addictive behaviors.
