title: Dhat syndrome: Evolution of concept, current understanding, and need of an integrated approach.
abstract: Dhat syndrome has often been construed as a culture-bound sexual neurosis of the Indian subcontinent. Symptoms similar to that of Dhat syndrome has been described in other cultures across different time periods. The present paper looks at the evolution of the concept of Dhat syndrome in India. The review also takes an overview of the current understanding of this syndrome in terms of nosological status as a distinct entity and its "culture-bound" status. The narrative finally attempts to discuss the integrated approach for the treatment of this disorder.
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychiatry, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.
authors.forename: Sujita Kumar
authors.initials: SK
authors.lastname: Kar
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychiatry, Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chrompet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
authors.forename: Siddharth
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Sarkar
keywords: Culture-bound syndrome; Dhat syndrome; integrated approach