Genetics of Mental Disorders: What Practitioners and Students Need to Know

This book provides a comprehensive and readable primer on the complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors in mental disorders. Re ndering technical concepts accessible, and laying to rest common myths and oversimplifications, the book describes what (and how) scientists have learned about the causation and expression of such frequently en countered disorders as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, an d Alzheimer disease. Clinicians and students gain the basic knowledge they need to evaluate the literature in this rapidly developing field, understand implications for treatment, and communicate genetic inform ation to clients and families. Throughout, special attention is given to the critical ethical and professional concerns raised by emerging t echnologies.