The mentally ill. History and care since Medieval times

• Main Authors: María Elena Pileño Martínez (Author), Francisco Javier Morillo Rodríguez (Author), Paloma Salvadores Fuentes (Author), Amparo Nogales Espert (Author)
• Format: Book
• Published: Universidad de Alicante, 2012-06-01T00:00:00Z.
• Subjects: article
• Online Access: Connect to this object online.
• Notes: 1699-6003; 10.14198/cuid.2003.13.06
• Keywords: Historia; Locura; Institucionalización; Confinamiento social; Nursing; RT1-120
• Source: Cultura de los Cuidados, Vol 0, Iss 13, Pp 29-35 (2012)

The present work reflects the evolution of insanity in the Spanish cultural, social and historical context. The sequence of events and the interrelation of social systems have improved "assistance", "care" and "medical attention" towards an understanding of the patient's needs and the application of new medical theories. Nursing role reflects -since the beginning of times- a discipline build by the effort and participation of all those who cared during centuries. On the other hand, social policies in their integrating role have made insanity adapt to cultural contexts. Throughout the article it is shown how the "insane" have adapted to different forms of institutionalization and disinstitutionalization leading to the current situation.