NCJ Number
77227
Journal
Adolescence Volume: 16 Issue: 61 Dated: (Spring 1981) Pages: 33-37
Date Published
1981
Length
5 pages
Annotation
A behavioral phenomenon observed in juveniles coming from a jail into an open ward for drug treatment is characterized by protestations against being forcibly confined and severely regulated in an apparent attempt to be returned to a jail-like setting.
Abstract
Called 'jailification' for the purposes of the paper, the behavior can be hypothesized as rooted in the patients' most basic patterns of object relations. The juveniles' identities have been formed in relation to parents who embodied the models of law and order, and relinquishment of this type of rigidity for the liberal rules of the open ward would be to give up their most meaningful relationships (with their parents) and, at the same time, acknowledge the defective child-rearing practices of their parents. The reaction is anxiousness. The patient handles the dilemma by making exaggerated, irrational demands. However, if a staff member appears to be close to granting a demand, the patient will change the request to make sure it remains unacceptable. Nine references are provided.