Am J Psychiatry 1977; 134:563-565
Copyright © 1977 by American Psychiatric Association
The psychological effects of isolation in protected environments
J Kellerman, D Rigler and SE Siegel
The authors questioned the directors of 13 protected-environment
installations on the psychological effects of protected environment
treatment. Psychological problems reported included anxiety, depression,
sleep disturbance, withdrawal, regression, and hallucinations. Children
seemed to adapt better than adults to protected environments. Respondents
recommended the use of preentry orientation, structured recreation
programs, steps to prevent time disorientation, and psychological support
for both patients and staff to minimize the psychological effects of
treatment in protected environments.
