Precision Psychiatry: Perspectives, Pitfalls, and Possibilities-View Presentation

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In this APA conference presentation, a recent medical graduate, also with a background in philosophy, critiques and explores the potential of precision psychiatry through a philosophical lens, particularly existential phenomenology. The speaker emphasizes the importance of examining the limits of technological advancements in psychiatry to utilize them effectively, a stance inspired by Immanuel Kant's critique of reason. The speaker draws a parallel between precision medicine's successes in other fields, like oncology, and the aspirations for precision psychiatry, which seeks to use genetic and molecular profiling for individualized treatment plans. However, the emphasis on reducing mental illness to mere brain disease is questioned, highlighting the need for a comprehensive approach incorporating psychological, social, and cultural perspectives.<br /><br />Several approaches to precision psychiatry are discussed: a full-steam-ahead "gung-ho" approach advocating for a complete shift to neuroscience-based understanding, a "gung-no" approach warning against over-reliance on biological reductions, and a philosophical critique urging precision to be seen as enhancing tools rather than replacing human empathy and understanding.<br /><br />The presenter critiques the notion of limitless precision programs, advocating for establishing clearer boundaries which can lead to better integration of technological tools with human-centric clinical practices. By understanding where technological precision is applicable, clinicians can use sophisticated tools alongside their inherent empathetic abilities in patient care. The talk ends with discussions from the audience on philosophical considerations, including perspectives on liberty, determinism, and the philosophical underpinnings that factor into how precision psychiatry should evolve.

Keywords

precision psychiatry

existential phenomenology

technological advancements

Immanuel Kant

precision medicine

individualized treatment

mental illness

neuroscience

philosophical critique

human empathy

clinical practices