Many people criticise, and psychiatrists apologise, for the use of the 'medical model'. We examine what is currently meant by this term and suggest a refinement of definition to reflect the ideals and contemporary practice of medicine. We propose that psychiatrists should use the medical model to improve and validate bio-psychosocial psychiatric medicine.

Independent experts serve a vital role in how the human rights of patients are protected in mental health law. This article investigates the contribution of court-appointed psychiatrists (APs) in civil commitment court hearings. Analysis is based on 12 court hearings that were audiotaped. Supplementary informal interviews with participants were also conducted. Data were analysed through a combi...

It is indeed a great honour delivering the presidential address here at the " 56th " annual conference of our esteemed society in the city of palaces, Mysore. I am grateful to the honorable members of the IPS who have reposed their faith in me and provided me an opportunity to work for the highest office for a year. I feel overwhelmed whenever I think about the day when I joined psychiatry as m...