Psychiatrist Discusses the Lasting Trauma of Circumcision

Psychiatrist Richard Schwartzman discusses his personal experiences with, and feelings about circumcision; his observations about the importance of early childhood nurturing, and protection from trauma.

Richard Schwartzman, DO, is a practicing psychiatrist, board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Prior to becoming a physician, he was a licensed, practicing pharmacist. He is a graduate of Temple University School of Pharmacy (1961) and the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (1966). He completed his psychiatric residency training at Drexel University (1974), and a fellowship in forensic psychiatry at Temple University School of Law and Medicine (1976). In addition to maintaining a private clinical practice throughout his career, Dr. Schwartzman also served as Hahnemann’s Medical Director of Psychiatric Services to the Philadelphia Prisons from 1978-2000, where he was Associate Clinical Professor of Psychiatry. In his private practice, he employs the unique therapeutic method pioneered by Wilhelm Reich, M.D., and is considered to be a leading training therapist in this method. Solebury, Pennsylania, USA.

See also

• Pain
• Psychological issues of male circumcision
• Psychosexual Effects of Circumcision
• Posttraumatic stress disorder
• Circumcision: The Hidden Trauma