ABSTRACT

Pain is felt by everyone, yet understanding its nature is fragmented across myriad modes of thought. In this compact, yet thoroughly integrative account uniting medical science, psychology, and the humanities Ronald Schleifer offers a deep and complex understanding along with possible strategies of dealing with pain in its most overwhelming forms. A perfect addition to many courses in medicine, healthcare, counseling psychology, and social work.

part |19 pages

Introduction

chapter 1|17 pages

The Fact and Experience of Pain

Science and the Humanities

part I|56 pages

The Nature of Pain

chapter 2|15 pages

The Physiology of Pain

How the Body Works

chapter 3|17 pages

The Phenomenon of Chronic Pain

Controversies and Understanding

chapter 4|22 pages

Treating Pain

Operations, Drug Therapy, Placebos, and Palliative Care

part II|51 pages

Experiences of Pain

chapter 5|23 pages

The Experience of Pain

The Nature of Suffering and the Meaning of Pain

chapter 6|26 pages

The Politics and Spirituality of Pain

Infants, Women, Torture, Religion, Pleasure and Pain

part III|21 pages

Living with Pain

chapter 7|19 pages

Caretakers and Sufferers Dealing with Pain