A comprehensive source book for the field of catatonia. Its ambitious scope includes topics ranging from the evolution of the concept of catatonia, to its place in the evolutionary framework of human behavior. Each chapter contains a clearly written and balanced review of the relevant literature, and is authored by one or more individuals who have contributed substantially to that subject area. Practical and clinically important issues such as assessment, treatment and differential diagnosis are discussed thoroughly ad knowledgeably. Mental health clinicans, researchers and historians alike should find this a useful resource.