Total Institutions
Total institutions can be typified on a continuum from little control to absolute control:
Notes:
The relative position of the mental institution on this line is dependent on the type of
institution and the time frame. In addition, if a person enters the mental institution
voluntarily, less damage may be done to their self Indeed, there is a group therapy
scene in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s nest in which McMurphy expresses amazement that
anyone would voluntarily commit themselves to the facility.
One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest aptly illustrates many of the concepts and ideas
Goffman identified.
Ironically, the deinstitutionalization movement in the treatment of mental illness was
underway when Cuckoo's Nest was first released. However, deinstitutionalization of the
mentally ill in favor of more humane treatments has proven to have the latent consequence
of swelling the ranks of the homeless. For a perspective on consequences see:
"Madness and Social Policy" by Juam Gonzalez in the October 9-11
In These Times at: http://www.inthesetimes.com/gonzalez2220.html