Elements of the Perpetuation of Dependency in a Psychiatric Halfway House

Authors

David R. Maines, Yale University
Marilyn A. Markowitz, Upsala College

Abstract

Halfway houses are intended as helping institutions for those who are attempting to make the transition from institutionalized mental health facilities to autonomous living in the community. In spite of the manifest goal to produce independence for its residents, however, the halfway house contributes to patterns of dependency. In addition to the network nature of mental health care, we identify three dependency-perpetuating elements: role commitments, language, and mixed messages. These elements are analyzed as both social organizational and social psychological processes, and their implications are discussed.

Recommended Citation

Maines, David R. and Markowitz, Marilyn A. (1979) "Elements of the Perpetuation of Dependency in a Psychiatric Halfway House," The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare: Vol. 6: Iss. 1, Article 7.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15453/0191-5096.1333
Available at: https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/jssw/vol6/iss1/7