ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the framework of critical realist metatheory to consider in more detail the requirements of interdisciplinary co-operation and dialogue. It offers a brief overview and critique of the available literature's solutions to the problem of interdisciplinarity. The chapter illustrates the difference between reductionism and atomism, and to compare these to an integrated approach, it uses the example of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): An important reason behind reductionism is the contemporary approach to specialization in the health care system. It would be impossible to consider the psychological problems facing a recent amputee without having an excellent understanding of the biological and physical constraints that their disability places on them. The chapter considers how someone with a strong disciplinary grounding might be supported to work well in an interdisciplinary team. It outlines the main recommendations in the literature on how to overcome these barriers, referring mainly to those made by leading international research organizations.
