Rehabilitation Literature, 1950–1955

Abstract

the vagaries of the system on the basis of expediency is convincing, albeit depressing. Dr. Belknap holds that human problems outlined in the report are directly or indirectly the result of a failure of those concerned with mental health to see and act upon the incompatibility of centralization, large size and residual welfare responsibility of the hospital with the spirit and most of the techniques of modern psychiatry. His recommendations are based on the above premise and include a reduction in patient-load by the exclusion of all patients who do not have specific mental illness and a thorough alteration in the administrative organization of the hospital. Many will take exception to the proposed realignment. However, given the first condition, this and alternative organizational plans should be studied and tried. Appendixes, one with references for ,each chapter and one on theory and methods, enhance the report. RUTH E. SIMONSON