The author states that a valid diagnostic classification based on the
medical model is a sine qua non for progress in psychiatric research and
treatment and that such classification requires follow-up and family
studies. To illustrate this point he reports on studies showing that
hysteria, or Briquet's syndrome, is a valid clinical entity that follows a
predictable course and clusters in certain families. He also reports that
an association between hysteria and sociopathy has been demonstrated,
suggesting that the two conditions may arise from sililar etiologic and
pathogenetic factors.Abstract Teaser