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Understanding the Italian Experience

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 January 2018

Kathleen Jones*
Affiliation:
Heslington, York YO1 5DD
Alison Poletti
Affiliation:
37 Sans Souci Park, Belfast
*
Correspondence.

Summary

The “Italian Experience” in closing down mental hospitals has been highly praised by some British observers, who have seen lessons for Britain in the development of community care. However, it has been the subject of heated debate in Italy—and the policy is now to be reversed by law. Two questions arise: why have the claims been exaggerated? And why have they found such ready and uncritical acceptance in Britain?

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © 1985 The Royal College of Psychiatrists 

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