(via Psychology of the Paranormal Email Network, perhaps of interest
Roberto)
ttp://www.bmehealth.org/
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SPIRIT POSSESSION AND MENTAL HEALTH
19TH MARCH 2012 / LONDON
Spirit possession is recognised world wide across many cultures and by
several religions. Spirit possession is often seen as an idiom of
distress causing a change in behaviour and mental well being. Spirit
possession is also included in the ICD 10 and DSM IV classifications
of mental disorders, yet the extent to which it is recognised and / or
discussed in clinical practice is less than we would expect, even in
UK cities where there resides a diverse population. This one day
event will consider the critical themes and debates on spirit
possession from an anthropological, social, psychological, medical and
religious perspective using a range of illustrative case study,
clinical practice, research and short film presentations.
The aims of the conference:
Discuss possible definitions of and different kinds of spirit possession
Debate the key elements which typify spirit possession
Discuss who can make a diagnosis of spirit possession and how such
a diagnosis might be made
Compare and contrast how spirit possession might be viewed by
clinicians, religious leaders, healers, the “patient”, family and
community members
Discuss the value of using the patient’s explanatory model of the illness
Reflect upon the key issues associated with defining what is
“normal” and “abnormal”
Discuss folk healing practices in different cultures and
“treatment” options including exorcism
Consider whether there is a need to enhance joint working between
mental health professionals and traditional healers.
Who Should Attend?
This conference will be relevant to all interested in this field as
well as all professionals, including those from Local Authorities and
NHS trusts across the UK, Psychiatrists, GPs, Psychologists,
Psychotherapists, Counsellors, Early Intervention Teams, CPN’s, OT’s,
Social Workers, Chaplains, Community Faith Leaders & Healers, Equality
Leads, Community Development Workers, Service User Representatives,
Charities, Third Sector, Educational Establishments, Academics and
Policy makers.
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