This course critically examines the social dimensions of mental
illness.  Public health officials estimate that four out of the ten
leading causes of disability are due to mental illnesses and that
nearly one out of five Americans will experience a mental disorder
this year.  How does society deal with this major health problem?  We
will review sociological explanations on how mental illness is
defined and diagnosed.  We will explore in-depth how society treats
and reacts to the mentally ill.  We will examine programs for
treating mental illness and evaluate the benefits and dangers of
treatment options.  We will investigate how some institutions such as
the legal system and health insurance industry confront mental
illness.

The class combines lectures, general class discussions, and
occasional in-class exercises.  Assigned readings consist of 3 or 4
texts and a reading packet.  Grades will be based on 4 exams and 1
research paper.  Students have the option to write their research
paper from several topics.  One paper option involves an organized
trip to a mental hospital.  This course is strongly recommended to
those who are planning to work or research in mental health.  Future
psychiatrists, educators, lawyers, counselors, social workers,
doctors, nurses, clinical psychologists, policy analysts, and social
scientists will particularly benefit from this course.