RESUMO
The results of a survey of North American medical schools (N = 65) about the content of their behavioral science courses are presented. Child psychological development and psychodynamic theory are the most frequently taught subjects in the schools (for 94% and 88% of the programs, respectively). Greater agreement on topics is found than in earlier surveys. The historical reasons for disagreement on content and objectives are explored and proposals for reform are offered.
RESUMO
Like many developing countries, Zimbabwe has a shortage of trained mental health professionals. The country is coping by developing an expanded role for nurses and other nonphysician mental health workers and by emphasizing use of medication in treating mental illnesses. The authors review traditional Zimbabwean beliefs about mental illness and healing and describe culturally specific patterns of illness presentation. To reverse the historic pattern in which psychiatric care was centralized in cities, Zimbabwe is establishing a countrywide system of primary health clinics, part of whose role is to screen and treat common mental disorders, educate communities about mental illness, and promote prevention of illness.
