Chapter 1.

Introduction

Princeton University

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1.1 Postpartum Psychosis: Why Did Andrea Yates Kill Her Five Children?

On the morning of June 20, 2001, Andrea Yates drowned her five small children in the bathtub. This powerful video examines this tragic case. It demonstrates her loving devotion to her children with moving home videos and photos, documents her past history of postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis, and looks at the failures of the medical and mental health fields and the decision made by Mrs. Yates and her husband to have a fifth child. As you watch, consider the important distinction between postpartum psychosis and postpartum depression (which is more common). Although Mrs. Yates suffered from each syndrome, it was postpartum psychosis that apparently triggered this tragedy.

1.2 Check Your Understanding

1.3 Activity Completed!