Students of behavioral science, whether residents in psychiatry, graduate students in psychology or clinical social work, or third- and fourth-year medical students preparing for the USMLE Step 1 and 2 examinations, need to understand patients' behavior, how to communicate effectively, and how to recognize and deal with psychiatric disorders. Problem-based learning involves the detailed, systematic study of real and fictitious patient cases. Although more than sixty medical schools incorporate problem-based learning in their curricula, there are no current textbooks to support and guide this aspect of courses in behavioral sciences, behavioral medicine, or psychiatry.

This book presents simulated patient cases in psychiatry and behavioral science, providing a real-world context for students and graduates in these areas. It introduces the topics described below through detailed case vignettes using a model of problem-based learning called progressive disclosure. Sample diagrams known as mechanistic case diagrams illustrate the neurobiological mechanisms underlying behavioral symptoms and show how behavioral and psychosocial factors impact on patient care.

About the Author

Dr. Guerrero is Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Pediatrics, Vice-Chair for Education and Training in the Department of Psychiatry, Director of Medical Student Education in Psychiatry, and Director of the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Division at the University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine. He has published in the areas of medical student education and problem-based learning, Asian and Pacific Islander mental health, and the interface between primary care and psychiatry.

Dr. Piasecki is Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Vice Chair for Education at University of Nevada School of Medicine where she works extensively with medical students and residents. She has published on the Physician-Patient relationship and a number of clinical topics.

Reviews
From the reviews: "This book discusses problem-based learning (PBL) methods and how to apply them when learning behavioral science and psychiatry. ... written for medical students and other students studying psychiatry and behavioral science. I would include anyone interested in PBL methods, as they may find it interesting as a way to learn about this technique. ... Each chapter has an extensive bibliography. ... A comprehensive index ends the book. ... for those who wish to learn about this teaching approach, this is a good book." (William Miles, Doody's Review Services, January, 2009) "...this unique book first provides cases to use as teaching tools and then ... emphasizes the use of problem-based learning methods to master the contents of teaching. ...an interesting and important book for teaching the principles of behavioral science and psychiatry. Unique in its presentation and format, the book is an excellent alternative for teachers of medical students, residents, and fellows. It is an important addition to the many texts discussing psychiatry in primary care medicine and general hospital psychiatry, as well as a useful volume for beginners attempting to master an understanding of this complex discipline of medicine. The authors have offered an innocative case method approach as a teaching paradigm from which teachers have much to gain." (James J. Strain, MD, J Clin Psychiatry 70:8, August 2009)



Book Information
ISBN 9781441926531
Author Anthony Guerrero
Format Paperback
Page Count 462
Imprint Springer-Verlag New York Inc.
Publisher Springer-Verlag New York Inc.