GROUP DISCUSSION AS A METHOD OF PATIENT ORIENTATION IN A NEUROPSYCHIATRIC HOSPITAL.

The article presents a study in which a discussion group was organized, consisting of all newly admitted male patients on a locked receiving ward, patients who were not physically ill, and who did not require maximum supervision. The present report covers the first three months of the groups' activities. During this period, one hundred different patients attended twenty one semi-weekly sessions, which were conducted at regular hours on the ward. Staff members who were not involved in the group discussions independently noted such manifestations of changes as the whole ward was quieter during this period than at any previous time, there were fewer aggressive outbursts by the patients either between themselves or with the staff, patients were more observant of ward regulations, presented fewer complaints about these regulations, and cooperation in ward work improved.