Findings suggest there are significant systemic relationships between major demographic trends in the United States and the rate of mental hospitalization. Macrosocial trends and changes can have important impacts on social work practice, and these impacts can make an important contribution to social policy and social work program planning.…

Describes the implementation of a collaborative discharge planning program for a chronic psychiatric population. Emphasizes the importance of good communication between patient and professionals. Presents a case example. Findings suggest more substantial involvement of patients in after-care programs is needed. (Author/JAC)

Mentally retarded citizens have been denied their human and civil rights, not only by the public, but by professionals--including social workers. The author claims that most programs for the mentally retarded are, at best, dehumanizing. Professionals have an ethical obligation to refuse to refer children to such programs. (Author)