| Abstract: | In a recent issue of this journal (February 1956), some pertinent factors underlying the relationship between psychiatry and (clinical) psychology were discussed. The principle of "one-way locomotion" can be used to describe the present situation. This freedom to trespass with impunity is a sore spot to many psychologists since there are no legal restraints prohibiting a psychiatrist (or any physician) from performing the recognized functions of a clinical psychologist. The concept of the clinical team, with the hierarchical arrangement of psychiatrist, psychologist, and social worker, deserves further scrutiny. Whether the bulk of psychiatry is willing to support research which might threaten medical pre-eminence remains to be seen. Much depends upon how sincere we all are in the common goals expressed by Brody (Amer. Psychologist, 1956, 11, 105-112): "understanding and helping emotionally and intellectually disturbed people." (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved) |
