Deinstitutionalization

Deinstitutionalization (/diːˌɪnstɪˌtjuːʃənəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/) is a sociopolitical process that involves the reduction in the use and size of institutions by transferring the care of individuals, usually those with mental health problems, from a public or private institution, to the community.

Etymology

The term "deinstitutionalization" is derived from the prefix "de-", meaning "removal or reversal", and "institutionalization", which refers to the process of establishing a practice or activity as a norm in an organization or culture.

History

Deinstitutionalization began in the mid-20th century, largely due to changes in social policy and improvements in psychopharmacology. The introduction of antipsychotic medications made it possible for people with severe mental illnesses to live in community settings rather than institutions.

Related Terms

Community mental health service: A type of service that aims to support people with mental disorders in a community setting instead of a psychiatric hospital.
Institutionalization: The process of establishing something as a norm in an organization or culture. In the context of mental health, it refers to the long-term confinement of individuals in psychiatric hospitals.
Psychiatric hospital: A hospital specializing in the treatment of serious mental disorders.
Mental health: A state of well-being in which an individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Deinstitutionalization
Wikipedia's article - Deinstitutionalization

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Deinstitutionalization