This paper explores a new approach to culture-specific mental disorders through cross-cultural examination of nerves. A number of case studies are presented from contrasting cultures. It is proposed that nerves be considered a culturally interpreted symptom rather than being culture-bound.

Costa Rica is a rapidly developing country with an expanding system of nationalized health care and a growing professional medical sector. This expansion affects the medicalization of health culture, including the symbolic and religious aspects of popular healing traditions. This study describes...