Arturo Sanmartín Gil, pioneer and master in Psychology and Psychiatry in Seville

Abstract

The life and works of Arturo Sanmartín Gil, a Psychiatrist and Psychologist from Seville, are reviewed. Oral and written primary sources have been used to collect the data with which we have summarized his biographical profile as well as his scientific thought. The most prominent life events concerning the atmosphere of his professional activity are highlighed. The main topics and general guidelines of his thought are also pointed out. We conclude with an observation on the local importance of Sanmartín concerning: a) the teaching of modern psychological concepts to parents, teachers, health staff and Catholic church members; b) his pioneering efforts in fostering knowledge of the Psychologist's role in mental health and other fields, c) the clinical training and introduction into professional mental heglth practice of many Psychiatrists and Psychologists and, d) his defence of the need for improvement in adult, and chiefly, child psychiatric services.