Introduction

In the introduction, I use an example to bring the book's main theme vividly to life, before going on to define the period and subject of investigation. I then put forward my own hypotheses in light of the existing research. Finally, I set out my methodology, which combines praxeological and history-of-science approaches, while discussing and problematizing patient files as a source, one I supplement with an examination of textbooks, psychiatric periodicals, and administrative records.