Dwarfism
Medical and Psychosocial Aspects of Profound Short Stature
- Publisher
- Johns Hopkins University Press
- Initial publish date
- Aug 2005
- Category
- Genetics, Emotions
-
Paperback / softback
- ISBN
- 9780801881220
- Publish Date
- Aug 2005
- List Price
- $52.95
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Description
This landmark volume is the first to trace the exciting developments in the field of dwarfism research and treatment over the past century—particularly during the past fifty years. Dr. Betty M. Adelson, a psychologist, has unearthed and synthesized the most significant information about dwarfing conditions, from articles written a century ago to current books and specialized databases.
Highlighting the outstanding contributions of Dr. Victor McKusick and several of his colleagues, Dr. Adelson reveals how dwarfism specialists have helped redefine the nature of medical care—transforming it from an authoritarian enterprise into a holistic, collaborative venture among physicians, affected individuals, and their families.
The parent of an adult dwarf daughter, Adelson examines the social forces that affect the dwarfism community. She offers personal descriptions of the day-to-day challenges dwarf individuals face and portrays their accomplishments. Insightful and accessible, this work will prove a valuable resource for affected individuals, their families, and medical professionals—physicians, nurses, genetic counselors, social workers, psychologists, and medical students.
About the authors
Betty M. Adelson spent most of her career as a psychologist in private practice. She was formerly on the counseling staffs of Queens College and New York University's School of Education. She is the author of a cultural history, The Lives of Dwarfs: Their Journey from Public Curiosity toward Social Liberation.
Excerpt: Dwarfism: Medical and Psychosocial Aspects of Profound Short Stature (by (author) Betty M. Adelson; foreword by Judith G. Hall)
"This book is one of the best, most thorough overviews published on dwarfism-related topics. The text is well written, but from the heart, in a way that makes it particularly useful for those who appreciate having scholarly information presented within a meaningful personal and social context. This is a volume that everyone dealing with short stature will want to read and then keep for future reference."—From the foreword by Judith G. Hall, O.C., M.D.
Editorial Reviews
"One of the best, most thorough overviews published on dwarfism and related topics."
New England Journal of Medicine
"A great leap forward for the social and cultural condition of dwarfism."
Newsday
"Adelson presents tactful techniques and definite guidance, including what not to do."
JAMA
"I strongly recommend this book: its insights are unique, and it should prove of value to affected individuals, their families, and the healthcare professionals participating in their care."
American Journal of Human Biology
