HLTHAGE 1AA3 Lecture 3: Lecture 3 - DSM by Boddy.pdf
12 Feb 2014
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Document Summary
Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (j. boddy) Dsm defines what is considered normal and what is not. Dsm states that in many societies trance and possession trance are integral parts of everyday life, considered normal and/or expected within culturally specific contexts, yet not confined to communal or ritual events. Possession take total command over ones life, it is a learned behaviour. Possession by a male spirit who is now in control of the woman"s body, speaks about her with her husband man to man dispensing advise and imparting information that would otherwise impossible for them to discuss. Requires an analysis of power relations, usually imbedded in relations of gender, age, rage. Religious, economic cultural and political reasons not to authorize, leaves issues important to women unaddressed. Possessions can be considered a highly creative and politically informed response.
