The psychiatrist in American cartoons, 1941-1990

The portrayal of psychiatrists in cartoons from the United States was examined. A total of 404 cartoons from 1941 to 1990 were obtained and arranged chronologically. The appearance, behaviour, treatment methods and efficacy of the cartoon psychiatrist were assessed. It was found that there has been little change in these parameters over the past 50 years. This finding is partly explained by the constraints of the cartoon medium and by the workings of humour and stereotyping. Psychiatric cartoons from other countries and those drawn by psychiatrists themselves do not depart from the American pattern. The differences between the representation of psychiatrists in the cartoon and in other media, such as the film, are highlighted. It is postulated that the cartoon serves to stabilize the more mutable portrayals of psychiatrists in other media. Further studies are suggested.