Synopsis
The design of a carefully planned treatment program for disturbed adolescents within the framework of Bertalanffy's “Open System” theory is presented in some detail. It follows closely the four psychiatrically important principles of:
1. Openness and interaction (mutuality)
2. Intrinsic spontaneous goal directed activity
3. Maintenance of a “steady state” of balanced tension, and
4. Increasing self-governing organization.
It addresses itself to both the patient as a system and the related systems of his ward, his unit (patients and staff), his family, school, and even civic organizations. The treatment program has proven promising in the two years of its existence.