Review Article
Démence Précoce: Historical Conceptualization of the Concept
Barbara Castro Sousa*
,
Zoe Correia de Sá,
Joana Ramos
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
98-103
Received:
28 August 2024
Accepted:
12 September 2024
Published:
26 November 2024
Abstract: Schizophrenia, like many mental disorders, was historically viewed as madness or demonic possession until the 18th century when psychiatry began to emerge as a scientific discipline. French psychiatrist Bénédict Morel played a pivotal role in this transformation by coining the term "démence précoce." He used this term to describe a set of clinical features observed in schizophrenia, suggesting that it was due to an inherent biological defect that progressively worsened through successive generations. German psychiatrist Emil Kraepelin further refined Morel's ideas by developing the concept of "dementia praecox". He described a cluster of symptoms and signs characterized by a specific course and outcome, emphasizing the chronic and deteriorative nature of the illness. Kraepelin's work laid the groundwork for modern understanding, emphasizing the classification of psychiatric conditions based on symptom clusters, progression, and outcomes. In the early 20th century, Swiss psychiatrist Eugen Bleuler introduced the term "schizophrenia", marking a significant shift in the conceptualization of the disorder. He viewed it not as a single disease but as a group of related disorders, which he called the "group of schizophrenias." Bleuler focused on the splitting of cognitive functions—such as thinking, feeling, and behavior—recognizing a broader spectrum of symptoms beyond the purely degenerative model proposed by Kraepelin. The evolution of schizophrenia's conceptualization reflects broader developments in neuropsychiatry, neuropsychopharmacology, and neuroscience. Advances in these fields have refined diagnostic criteria, understanding of neurobiological underpinnings, and treatment approaches. However, the journey to fully understanding schizophrenia is ongoing. The complexities of its causes, manifestations, and treatments mean that its history—and the final chapter of its understanding—remains to be written, as new research continues to challenge and expand upon existing knowledge.
Abstract: Schizophrenia, like many mental disorders, was historically viewed as madness or demonic possession until the 18th century when psychiatry began to emerge as a scientific discipline. French psychiatrist Bénédict Morel played a pivotal role in this transformation by coining the term "démence précoce." He used this term to describe a set of clinical ...
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Research Article
The Impact of COVID–19 on the Mental Health of the Youth
Yogaletchmi Yugarajan*
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
104-108
Received:
9 September 2024
Accepted:
12 October 2024
Published:
29 November 2024
Abstract: In early December 2019, an outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 occurred in Wuhan City and spread around the world. Many countries have implemented a range of control measures due to the perceived risk of contracting sickness. In our work, we investigated how the virus and containment affected the psyche of young people and what the consequences are for them in the future. There are clear psychological consequences which were caused by the containment of the virus, but the serious consequences will only become apparent in the next few years or decades. In our work, we investigated how the virus and subsequent containment measures affected the psyche of young people and what the potential long-term consequences may be. The psychological effects of the pandemic were significant, with many young people experiencing heightened levels of anxiety, depression, loneliness, and uncertainty about their future. While the immediate psychological consequences were evident during the pandemic, it is likely that the more serious, long-term effects will only become apparent in the coming years or even decades. As young people transition into adulthood, the pandemic’s impact on their mental health, social development, and career prospects may lead to enduring challenges. It is crucial to continue studying and addressing these effects to mitigate the potential for long-lasting harm and to support the mental well-being of future generations.
Abstract: In early December 2019, an outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 occurred in Wuhan City and spread around the world. Many countries have implemented a range of control measures due to the perceived risk of contracting sickness. In our work, we investigated how the virus and containment affected the psyche of young people and what the consequences ar...
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Research Article
Addressing Depression Through Faith: The Development and Theoretical Underpinnings of Religious Savior-Centered Psychotherapy (RSCP)
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
109-121
Received:
9 November 2024
Accepted:
25 November 2024
Published:
12 December 2024
Abstract: Religious Savior-Centered Psychotherapy (RSCP) is an innovative, faith-based therapeutic approach that integrates religious principles with evidence-based psychological frameworks, including Positive Psychology and Quality of Life Therapy (QOLT). Rooted in the Shi’ah Islamic tradition, RSCP emphasizes the transformative role of faith in a Savior while incorporating universal concepts of meaning, resilience, and well-being, making it adaptable to diverse religious and cultural contexts that share a belief in a Savior figure. RSCP draws heavily on the concept of "active anticipation" of the Imam Mahdi (PBUH), emphasizing purposeful action and hope for a just and utopian world. Within Shi’ah Islam, anticipation is not a passive state but a dynamic process of striving toward personal and societal transformation. Narrations extol the awaiting individual's status, portraying them as divine justice agents whose hope-filled and goal-oriented actions align with religious ideals of worship and well-being. This dynamic interplay between individual transformation and societal harmony makes RSCP a comprehensive model addressing both micro-level mental health needs and macro-level cultural aspirations. This therapeutic model builds on the parallels between Islamic teachings and positive psychology principles, such as hope, goal setting, and mental well-being. RSCP leverages the psychological benefits of utopian thinking, which fosters resilience, purpose, and social connection, aligning with Frankl’s emphasis on meaning and Adler’s focus on social connectedness. Additionally, RSCP integrates aspects of Quality of Life Therapy (QOLT) to operationalize the pursuit of a "Full Life," a concept echoed in positive psychology. By prioritizing individual circumstances and emphasizing meaning-centered actions, RSCP holistically addresses emotional, psychological, and spiritual dimensions of well-being. RSCP is adaptable across different religious contexts. For example, in Christian traditions, it could center on the anticipation of the second coming of Christ (PBUH), while in other religious frameworks, similar Savior-centric beliefs could guide the therapeutic process. This approach not only aids in achieving personal fulfillment but also offers a framework for fostering broader societal harmony and justice. Moreover, RSCP has the potential to fulfill intrinsic human desires for perfection, security, justice, and unity. It should be noted that, due to the novelty of this treatment method and the need for further scientific research to provide readers with data on its validity, as well as to explore its qualitative and quantitative stages, this article focuses on its theoretical foundations. A more detailed description of its components, along with the qualitative and quantitative phases of its development, is provided in other extended articles.
Abstract: Religious Savior-Centered Psychotherapy (RSCP) is an innovative, faith-based therapeutic approach that integrates religious principles with evidence-based psychological frameworks, including Positive Psychology and Quality of Life Therapy (QOLT). Rooted in the Shi’ah Islamic tradition, RSCP emphasizes the transformative role of faith in a Savior wh...
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