First readmission of the mentally ill: An event history analysis

This paper examines the effects which various factors, such as postinstitutional placement as well as other variables, have on the probability of first readmission of mentally ill patients. Utilizing an Event History Analysis method, it was found that those living with the family of origin have the least chance of success, i.e., the greatest chance of being readmitted, relative to those living alone or with the family of procreation. Patients working in occupational rehabilitation programs are found to be disadvantaged relative to those holding regular jobs or even the unemployed. The results support the proposition that socially integrated relationships may provide the mentally ill with rewards, such as social support, but they also entail some costs in terms of family burden. For reasons discussed in the paper, the costs seem to be highest for those living with their family of origin. The relatively high risk of readmission for those working in occupational training programs may reflect a reproductive process of the mental health setting: since the managers of these programs are mental health practitioners, it is possible that patients behavior is more often interpreted within a pathological framework, thus more readily leading to rehospitalization.