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. 1993 Nov-Dec;34(6):392-5.
doi: 10.1016/0010-440x(93)90063-a.

Terms of madness: historical linguistics

J T Dalby  1
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Terms of madness: historical linguistics

J T Dalby. Compr Psychiatry. 1993 Nov-Dec.

Abstract

The etymological origins of commonly used descriptors of mental conditions are explored. In reviewing history for signs of mental disorders, we need to understand the terms used previously to indicate abnormalities. A wealth of terms is evident indicating that, contrary to the conclusions of some historians, mental illnesses have an extended and broad history.

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