The concept of dignity is developed from an etiological perspective. Special attention is given to innate, phylogenetically programmed behavior, the role of releasers, the importance of rituals, and the fact that “management problems” in institutions are often cries for dignity. Observations of geriatric patients admitted to a nursing home are given, but it is believed that the generalizations apply equally well to institutionalization in other settings such as residential centers for young people, correctional facilities, or mental hospitals.
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