Training of psychiatrists for developing countries

There are significant differences in approaches to the training of psychiatrists in developed and developing countries. In the latter, with acute shortages of manpower in psychiatry and gross deficiencies in psychiatric services, there is a need for training programs to emphasise the practical needs of the country. The aim should be to produce a well-rounded generalist who is capable of coping with most psychiatric problems with little access to a clinical psychologist or social worker, both of whom are usually not readily available in developing countries. The trainee should have a good grounding in the briefer psychotherapies and behaviour modification. There is a need to pool resources in developing countries to initiate local training programs. Cooperation between developed and developing countries can also play a useful role in the starting of regional training programs to benefit several countries.