Psychosurgery Evaluation

Question 1

Cosgrove and Rauch (2001)

Answer 1

Cingulotomy surgery was 56% successful for patients with O.C.D compared to a 67% success rate for a another form of stereotactic surgery (a capsulotomy).

Question 2

Modern psychosurgery techniques

Answer 2

Modern psychosurgery techniques that are used today are Targeted to the problem area in the brain and will only manipulate the specific area where there is an issue, because advanced technology can be used. This is different to past techniques which were ineffective because the brain could not be viewed so psychosurgery was based on “guess” work. (Strength)

Question 3

The effect of psychosurgery can’t be reversed

Answer 3

The effects of psychosurgery can’t be reversed, which is unethical. Early procedures resulted in significant changes to a Patients memory as well as the severe blunting of emotions. Early methods such as prefrontal lobotomy left some patients in a permanently “vegetative state”.

Question 4

Mental health act (1983)

Answer 4

Since 1983 in the uk, informed consent needs to be given under the mental health act, for a person to undergo psychosurgery. This Act incorporated stricter regulations regarding consent to psychosurgery, which is a positive move. Psychosurgery is now not used if a more ethical treatment, such as drug therapy, could be used instead.