UNEXPECTED OUTCOMES OF CHILDHOOD PSYCHIATRIC HOSPITALIZATION

Abstract

This article describes an aspect of a larger study of the experiences, outcomes, and consequences of hospitalization during the years that constitute the "for-profit psychiatric hospital scandal" in Texas. Specifically, this article is concerned with patients who were children during 1985-1991. The author presents a case study of one such patient, followed by discussion of perceived outcomes as well as the longterm professional, economic, and policy sequelae of questionable psychiatric hospitalization. Questions are also raised as to the implications of applying a purely marketplace orientation to the care of society's most vulnerable individuals.