A study of the psychiatric evaluations of 248 consecutive clients whose
cases were in the process of adjudication for approval or renewal of
Supplemental Security Income and/or Social Security Disability Income in
1982 and 1983 showed an overrepresentation of individuals with chronic
moderate to severe psychiatric impairment. The author suggests that the
criteria and guidelines for eligibility for these two programs are too
stringent for individuals with psychiatric impairment and that some of
these individuals are unable to provide information necessary to build a
proper case for disability because of their psychopathology. The
implications for psychiatrists, other mental health professionals, and
social policy planners are discussed.Abstract Teaser