Administrative Therapy

Recent improvements in the condition of British Cental hospitals and their patients have resulted from social action, informed by knowledge gained from social sciences and psychotherapy. The synthesis of these insights, and their realisation in the administration of a mental hospital, are described by Doctor David Clark as Administrative Therapy. His book is directed to the young psychiatrist beginning his work the mental hospital. The style is vigorous, and so readable that this book will appeal to a wide audience. The content is simple and practical. Dr. Clark has been content to consolidate what is already accepted rather than to explore the uncertain frontiers of new knowledge. He recognises that there is little adequate theory, but introduces the reader to relevant readings !n the social sciences. He is equally aware that there Is less than rigorous proof of the effectiveness of this approach. Nevertheless, like many others, he is conyinced of the need for and the possibility of modern 'nstitutional psychiatry, which can mobilise the resources of its staff and its patients for the benefit of both. This approach, commonly referred to as the