Abstract
This paper describes dramatic changes that took place during a two-and-a-half year period within a ward of chronic schizophrenic female patients (140) of a large mental hospital (7,500). Some of the significant problems, techniques used to cope with them, and clinical observations are described. The achievements were possible, the author believes, because resources within the staff and patients were organized by means of regularly scheduled group meetings. Through the process of identifying and accomplishing feasible group goals, the author believes large numbers of institutionalized patients can be helped in spite of limited availability of professional personnel.
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References
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Williams, M., McGee, T. F., Kittleson, S., & Halperin, L. An evaluation of an intensive group living program with schizophrenic patients.Psychological Monographs, 1962,76 (24).
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He wishes to express his appreciation to the staff and patients of Manteno State Hospital, particularly to the James sub-unit of Unit A for the opportunity to work with them and make this record if their accomplishments during the period July, 1963, through February, 1966.
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Lipgar, R.M. Evolution from a locked to an open ward through therapeutically guided group meetings. Community Ment Health J 4, 221–228 (1968). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01879121
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01879121