Informing the patient: What social science research can tell the adolescent mental patient

The pioneer research and theoretical formulations of the psychiatric sociologists during the last decade have demonstrated the critical influence social processes have in the drift toward mental patient careers. In this article, I propose that several of the important concepts and perspectives achieved by these research developments be incorporated into present institutional treatment programs by way of a social science education program which reflectively examines the interpretations of hospitalization fashioned by psychiatric sociologists.Has an interdisciplinary Ph.D. (1973) from Northwestern University with a focus in sociology and psychiatry. Current interests are in the development of practice and treatment models which enhance the subjectivity and self-competency of clients. Also has an interest in the sociology of knowledge construction in the social work field.