A TOTAL PSYCHOTHERAPEUTIC PUSH METHOD AS PRACTICED IN THE FIFTH SERVICE COMMAND REHABILITATION CENTER, FORT KNOX, KENTUCKY

This article attempts to show an adaptation with modifications, of a total psychotherapeutic push method, as used in a rehabilitation center. The complete value of this method cannot be accurately measured. The results obtained, in terms of successful restorations are encouraging. They are based on three follow-up reports of men restored to duty, covering a nine months period, providing they are on duty in the United States. Regulations prohibit obtaining follow-up reports on men restored to duty after they are sent overseas. It is fully realized that no control group has been studied. These successful restorations do not show the total value of the program, inasmuch as it is the belief of the writers that many men, not restored to duty, have improved to the extent of becoming more tractable as custodial subjects. It is the opinion of the writers that this method of treating military offenders warrants further investigation and possible wider adoption by civilian correctional institutions, particularly by reformatories and industrial schools. The entire program, as outlined in this article, is an attempt to treat military delinquents with psychotherapy in a more intensified manner than is generally done. The over-all management and treatment of delinquents is still a debatable question. However, if psychotherapy is to be of any benefit, it is the writers' opinion that every available type of accepted treatment should be utilized, rather than specializing in any particular type or types of psychotherapy.