Introduction

Abstract

Why write a book on medicalization and psychologization in the welfare state? In this introduction, Reibling points out how the topical issue of research on medialization and psychologization can enter into a much-needed academic dialogue with research on the welfare state. This chapter provides multiple examples of the importance of medicine and psychology across various fields of the welfare state, including unemployment, poverty, homelessness, families, education, and social care. Furthermore, the chapter introduces its central country case—that of Germany—and highlights the fact that this book represents one of the first studies to investigate medicalization and psychologization in social policies in the context of a conservative welfare state.