Mental Illness and Psychiatric Treatment Among Women: A Response

Two of Gove's points are given major consideration. First, his precise definition of mental illness is criticized because it excludes diagnostic groups comprised largely of males (personality disorders and substance abusers). Second, Gove's analysis of the value of traditional versus nontradi-tional therapy for women is challenged and support is offered for the role of feminist therapy. It is recommended that the relationship between sex roles and emotional problems be examined and that less emphasis be given to demonstrating that one sex has more problems than the other.