The Myth of Mental Illness

"The Myth of Mental Illness," proposed by psychiatrist Thomas Szasz, argues that mental illnesses are not true illnesses like physical conditions, but rather labels for patterns of behavior deemed undesirable or problematic. Szasz contends that mental health issues reflect societal norms and conflicts rather than biological diseases. He emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility and the role of culture in defining mental health, suggesting that treatment should focus more on social and ethical dimensions rather than imposing medical solutions. This perspective challenges traditional views of mental health and questions the effectiveness of psychiatric interventions.