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Time-out: an overused and misused milieu intervention
1Rush College of Nursing, Chicago, IL, USA. kdelaney@cnis.rpslmc.edu
Summary
Time-outs are effective behavioral tools in inpatient psychiatry but are often misused. Proper application requires understanding the child
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Child Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Time-outs are frequently used in inpatient psychiatric settings.
- Overuse and misuse can diminish the effectiveness of time-outs.
- Interventions may not address underlying behavioral mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the logic and conceptual basis of time-outs.
- To identify the misuse and overuse of time-outs in inpatient psychiatry.
- To provide suggestions for appropriate time-out application.
Main Methods:
- Review of personal observations.
- Analysis of published literature.
Main Results:
- Time-outs can become an automatic response, losing efficacy.
- Misuse includes lengthy seclusion room stays.
- Effectiveness is compromised when not addressing child's needs.
Conclusions:
- Time-outs are valuable when used intentionally.
- Understanding the child's needs is crucial for effective time-out implementation.
- Mindful application enhances the therapeutic benefit of time-outs.