Such a multidisciplinary approach is central to this book. Six historical studies are integrated with chapters by a theologian, geographer, anthropologist, social worker and psychiatrist to produce an evaluation that addresses key concepts and methodologies, and reflects practical involvement as well as academic scholarship. Ranging from the mid-nineteenth century to the present, the book explores the causes of mental breakdown among migrants; the psychological changes stemming from their struggles with challenging life circumstances; and changes in medical, political and public attitudes and responses in different eras and locations.
Marjory Harper is Professor of History at the University of Aberdeen, UK. Her research interests and publications are primarily in the Scottish diaspora since 1800, and her two most recent books have both won international prizes. She co-authored Migration and Empire (2010) and is currently working on two further monographs.