Asylums revisited

Area of Science:

• Sociology
• Social Psychology
• Mental Health Studies

Background:

• Revisiting Erving Goffman's seminal work "Asylum".
• Examining phenomena of institutionalization and secondary adjustment at Saint Elizabeths Hospital 20 years later.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the continued presence of institutionalization and secondary adjustment.
• To question the direct causal link between institutionalization and secondary adjustment.
• To challenge the automatic condemnation of institutionalization.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative re-examination of Goffman's concepts in a contemporary setting.
• Observational and analytical approach to social phenomena within an institution.

Main Results:

• Both institutionalization and secondary adjustment phenomena were observed.
• Evidence suggests secondary adjustments do not invariably follow institutionalization.
• Doubt cast on the automatic negative perception of institutionalization.

Conclusions:

• Institutionalization and secondary adjustment remain relevant sociological concepts.
• The relationship between institutionalization and secondary adjustment requires nuanced understanding.
• Institutionalization may be a beneficial or preferred approach for certain patient populations.