Problems concerning the concept of reactive psychoses.

The problems of reactive psychoses are discussed from the following perspectives: terminology, prevalence, psychogenesis and trauma, predisposition and vulnerability, as well as outcome. Four definitions of reactive psychoses, which are used in Scandinavia, are presented and discussed. Each of them is beset with problems. The authors argues that the term 'reactive psychoses' should be limited to those functional psychoses which are not typically schizophrenic, manic-depressive or paranoid.