Mental Health in Action

Abstract

This article describes the establishment, composition, function ing, legal background, and commitment procedure of Patuxent Institution, which treats the antisocial offender under an in determinate sentence. The patient's course, from entrance to parole, is described, with emphasis on the following mental hygiene methods: attempts to allay anxiety through counseling, reinforcement of and rewards for socially approved behavior, use of external motivating sources, and consistency for the patient, both in and out of the institution. The concept of talking about and understanding behavior rather than acting out of impulses is discussed in light of the experience at Patuxent.