This report presents several years' experience in treating children manifesting the 'maternal deprivation syndrome' (hospitalism). Healthy children base their growth towards increasing autonomy on the adequate satisfaction of symbiotic needs and the resulting sense of security. The three stages of hospitalism described by Bowlby and Robertson

(protest, despair, rejection) result in a disturbance of vital physiological functions, autistic reactions, and the avoidance of social contacts. Therapeutic work begins with an effort to restore (preverbal) communication which has broken down as a result of frustration. The mending of an 'emotional tie' makes possible a reparation ('substitute mothering') and the initiation of a new process of development. The author expresses cautious optimism regarding this type of treatment even after prolonged hospitalization.