Reference no: EM132496362

A famous study was conducted by Rosenhan (Science, 1973), entitled

"On Being Sane in Insane Places." This study involved eight mentally healthy people, some psychologists and psychiatrists, who faked mental illness. Each person described auditory hallucinations, claiming to hear the words "empty," "dull," and "thud." They were each admitted to psychiatric hospitals with these symptoms. Once admitted, they failed to report any symptoms and acted like themselves.

While in the hospital, many normal behaviors were noted by the staff as abnormal. One of the "patients" was an artist, and her paintings were seen as an expression of her illness and recovery. Other "patients" taking notes were described to be making "schizophrenic writing."
Consider Thomas Szasz, who claimed that mental illness was a myth. His view on schizophrenia was that it should be properly regarded as a problem of living in a society that mistreats individuals who are different. He stated that, "In the past, men created witches. Now they create mental patients."

What do you believe about this study and the views presented as a result? Explain the pros and cons of the view.