Offering a complete review of the field of mental health from a sociological (rather than psychiatric) perspective, this book incorporates the most current data and research findings available—including the latest edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV). Chapter topics include the problem of mental disorder; types of mental disorders; concepts of causes and cures; mental disorder as it relates to: deviant behavior, social epidemiology, social class, age, gender, marital status, urban versus rural living and migration, and race; help-seeking behavior and the prepatient experience; acting mentally disordered: the example of schizophrenia, anxiety, and depression; the mental hospital patient; residing in the community; community care and public policy; mental disorder and the law; and mental disorder and public policy in selected countries. For individuals interested in the field of mental health.