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Published Online: February 1952

PSYCHIATRIC STUDY OF COAL MINERS IN EASTERN KENTUCKY AREA

CARL WIESEL and MALCOLM ARNYAuthors Info & Affiliations

Publication: American Journal of Psychiatry

Volume 108, Number 8

https://doi.org/10.1176/ajp.108.8.617

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Abstract

1. The social and cultural background of the Eastern Kentucky coal miner is described.

2. A "miner's syndrome" is commonly seen in the miner past 40. This is characterized by numerous somatic complaints, a passive dependent attitude, and an outstanding lack of anxiety, with rationalizations based upon having been exposed to "bad air," hard work, and "nerves being run down." Certain theories are advanced to explain the lack of anxiety.

3. The clinical picture of the younger miner is described. This differs from the older age group in that anxiety is manifested on a conscious level. This is related to changes occurring in the social and cultural background as well as an overt fear of occupational dangers.

4. Advantages and disadvantages of the United Mine Workers of America Welfare and Retirement Fund are discussed. The Fund serves as a source of security to the miner and offers definite benefits; at the same time it fosters dependency and a chronic invalid reaction based on fear of the hazards of mining as well as a desire for compensation.

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Information & Authors

Information

Published In

American Journal of Psychiatry

Volume 108 • Number 8 • February 1952

Pages: 617 - 624

PubMed: 14903188

History

Published in print: February 1952

Published online: 1 April 2006

Authors

Affiliations

CARL WIESEL

Psychiatric Social Worker, Harlan County Mental Hygiene Clinic, Harlan, Ky.

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MALCOLM ARNY

Psychiatric Social Worker, Harlan County Mental Hygiene Clinic, Harlan, Ky.

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PSYCHIATRIC STUDY OF COAL MINERS IN EASTERN KENTUCKY AREA

Abstract

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