Mass Violence in America and Mental IllnessMass Violence in America and Mental Illness
Shrink Speak
Mass violence events in America have been occurring unfortunately more and more frequently. After every event the conversation is always, “why does this keep happening?”. Fingers are pointed to things like access to guns and mental illness. But there...
20:51•3 Dec 2019
Mass Violence and Mental Health: Untangling the Myths on Shrink Speak
“So, prima facie, if you commit a mass violent crime, you're not crazy, you're not mentally ill. But the idea of temporary insanity, I mean there is always this: you know somebody who is you can't take it anymore. There's somebody who's a victim of violence and finally comes and goes and revenges themselves again.”
Why do mass violence events keep happening in America? It's a question that haunts many, and Dr. Jeffrey Lieberman, along with Dr. Michael First, dives headfirst into this pressing issue. In this thought-provoking episode of 'Shrink Speak', they tackle the often-misunderstood link between mental illness and mass violence. Dr. First, a Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at Columbia University, brings his expertise on the diagnostic criteria for mental disorders to the table, making for an enlightening discussion.
The duo doesn't shy away from tough topics. They dissect common misconceptions about mental illness being the root cause of mass violence and examine other contributing factors like gun accessibility and media portrayal. Dr. Lieberman makes a compelling point: 'If you commit a mass violent crime, you're not crazy, you're not mentally ill'. This episode also sheds light on the crucial difference between temporary insanity and long-term mental illness, stressing the importance of proper treatment for those with psychotic symptoms.
Listeners are in for a comprehensive overview of this complex issue, enriched with insights that challenge prevailing narratives. If you're curious about the real drivers behind mass violence and how mental health fits into the puzzle, this episode is a must-listen. It's perfect for anyone grappling with these questions or seeking a deeper understanding of the societal factors at play.
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