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Cases coming under the author's observation in the Oberhollabrun institution for correction of delinquents showed wide variation between normal and psychotic types. The function of such institutions is to provide a place of refuge wherein to recover from the buffeting of external circumstances, a function which in normal circumstances would be exercised within the family circle. Compensatory sublimation is an important factor in treatment, and the author gives details of two cases showing the effect of appropriately selected occupations.
The atmosphere characteristic of older institutions of this kind is one of repressed hate, but from the outset Aichhorn's policy was to bring happiness into the lives of the inmates. Early cases, indeed, were almost 'spoiled', but no injurious results were noted. Each individual must be convinced by experience that his pleasure-hunger can be satisfied in a socially ordered existence. Such institutions must not be run on formal lines, and in order to preserve individuality freedom from restriction must prevail. This is done by establishing independent groups in separate buildings. Fresh cases often react to friendliness and freedom with mistrust, regarding the former attitude as a sign of weakness or stupidity. Admissions are at first housed along with outgoing cases and given plenty of good simple food. No discrimination is made in the matter of food between teachers and their wards.
In reference to the matter of control, Aichhorn points out that daily conflict is most useful in getting to grips with the unconscious, and this can be stimulated artificially, the method varying in different cases, e.g. running away may be prevented in some cases and provoked in others. It is a sign that the 'outside' is more pleasurable than the 'inside'. When the project is discovered it may be necessary to make the 'inside' more pleasurable, but if the individual shows a tendency to vegetate within, pleasant memories of the 'outside' may be