[Psychiatry: under the influence]

The history of madness and psychiatry has witnessed the socio-cultural influence of psychiatric disorders in etiological constructs, expression and treatment. After a brief historical overview, the author emphasizes the contemporary socio-politico-economical conditions and their influence on the field of psychiatry. The prevalence of economic values and "econometric process" increasingly penetrates the organization of government, institutions and science, as well as favouring uniformity and fragmentation of its constructs and treatments. In regards to the clinical field, theories on treatment of symptoms without consideration of human or social subjectivity as well as organistic and mecanistic theories of the psychic troubles have gained in importance. In conclusion, the author recalls that dimensions perceived by consumers are the most influential determinants of change and well-being.