Présentation

Spirit possession is recognised world wide across many cultures and by several religions. Spirit possession is often seen as an idiom of distress causing a change in behaviour and mental well being. Spirit possession is also included in the ICD 10 and DSM IV classifications of mental disorders, yet the extent to which it is recognised and / or discussed in clinical practice is less than we would expect, even in UK cities where there resides a diverse population. This one day event will consider the critical themes and debates on spirit possession from an anthropological, social, psychological, medical and religious perspective using a range of illustrative case study, clinical practice, research and short film presentations.

The aims of the conference :

 Discuss possible definitions of and different kinds of spirit possession
 Debate the key elements which typify spirit possession
 Discuss who can make a diagnosis of spirit possession and how such a diagnosis might be made
 Compare and contrast how spirit possession might be viewed by clinicians, religious leaders, healers, the “patient”, family and community members
 Discuss the value of using the patient’s explanatory model of the illness
 Reflect upon the key issues associated with defining what is “normal” and “abnormal”
 Discuss folk healing practices in different cultures and “treatment” options including exorcism
 Consider whether there is a need to enhance joint working between mental health professionals and traditional healers.

Who Should Attend ?

This conference will be relevant to all interested in this field as well as all professionals, including those from Local Authorities and NHS trusts across the UK, Psychiatrists, GPs, Psychologists, Psychotherapists, Counsellors, Early Intervention Teams, CPN’s, OT’s, Social Workers, Chaplains, Community Faith Leaders & Healers, Equality Leads, Community Development Workers, Service User Representatives, Charities, Third Sector, Educational Establishments, Academics and Policy makers.