Date of Award

5-1970

Degree Type

Master's Essay - Restricted

Degree Name

Master of Education (MEd)

Department

Education

First Advisor

Frank L. Steeves

Second Advisor

Harvey Kaufman

Third Advisor

Nick J. Topetzes

Abstract

It is estimated that one out of every ten Americans now living will, at some time, require treatment for some type of psychological disturbance. Though this seems an alarmingly large number, not everyone who falls victim to a psychological disorder is necessarily required to spend the remainder of his life, nor even a large part of it in a psychiatric institution. Many patients are discharged from institutions within a short period following their admission, never to return. Others receive psychiatric care from their doctor at his office while they live seemingly normal lives. Kendler (1963, p. 494) considers the mental illness problem in this country as significantly grave as it is reflected in human suffering and economic loss. More than a billion dollars are spent annually to care for the behaviorally disturbed, while approximately 50 per cent of our hospital beds are occupied by psychiatric cases. Many of the psychologically afflicted are often skilled and professional workers who are usually unproductive, at least over a period of time. Untold suffering is endured not only by the patients themselves, but also by their families and friends.

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