This is the tenth edition of Kaplan & Sadock's Synopsis of Psychiatry to appear since its founding over 35 years ago and the second edition to be published in the 21st century. Since its beginning, the goal of this book has been to foster professional competence and ensure the highest quality care to those with mental illness. An eclectic, multidisciplinary approach has been its hallmark; thus, biological, psychological, and sociological factors are equitably presented as they affect the person in health and disease. Each edition is thoroughly updated and the textbook has the reputation of being an independent, consistent, accurate, objective, and reliable compendium of new events in the field of psychiatry.

Synopsis serves the needs of diverse professional groups: psychiatrists and nonpsychiatric physicians, medical students, psychologists, social workers, psychiatric nurses, and other mental health professionals, such as occupational and art therapists, among others. Synopsis is also used by nonprofessionals as an authoritative guide to help them collaborate in the care of a family member or friend with mental illness. As authors and editors, we have been extremely gratified by the Synopsis' wide acceptance and use, both in the United States and around the world.