Shell-Shock and Other Neuropsychiatric Problems: Presented in Five Hundred and Eighty-Nine Case Histories from the War Literature, 1914-1918

A scientific publication written in the early 20th century. The book serves as a case-history compilation focused on neuropsychiatric conditions arising from World War I, specifically highlighting cases categorized under 'Shell-shock.' Through detailed records and analyses of various cases, Southard aims to provide insights into the psychological and neurological effects of warfare on soldiers. The opening of the volume sets the stage for a comprehensive examination of neuropsychiatric issues linked to the horrors of war. It introduces the purpose of the book, which is to document and analyze case histories from both military and civilian perspectives. Southard discusses the challenges faced by the medical community in treating these conditions due to the unique stresses of combat, and he emphasizes the importance of including a wide range of cases from different countries involved in the war. The introduction also hints at the evolving understanding of war-related psychological conditions and lays the groundwork for the subsequent sections that delve deeper into specific cases and treatments.