3 ms·
Although you are right that the Republican - Democratic struggle about which level of government should be responsible for the patients did play a part, it was
by jchb 8y ago
Although you are right that the Republican - Democratic struggle about which level of government should be responsible for the patients did play a part, it was not just not about defunding. There was a growing public opposition against institutionalization. The 1975 movie One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest is just one example of criticism against the contemporary pshycatric care model.
Also, in the 60-70s there was (and there still is?) an over-belief in how medication could solve the problem.
- mirimir 8y agoYes, I remember the debate over institutionalization. And I recall visiting a humongous facility on Long Island. It was almost a small city. Also, I'm seriously into "live free or die fighting", so institutionalization is distasteful. I was technically homeless for several years, back in the day. I lived with friends, in group squats, in remote forest cabins, in tents and tipis, in vans, etc. But I was young and crazy, and it was fun and romantic. And it was entirely voluntary. Now, however, it wouldn't be so much fun.