Melvin Roman

Social stresses of medical students: A couples group approach

In recent years, undergraduate education has undergone significant changes. Among these have been increased flexibility of curricula, independent study programs, and earlier clinical experience (Bennett, 1973; Banks & Vastyan, 1973). Medical schools in particular have attempted to broaden clinical training by introducing seminars in medical ethics and human sexuality. As part of this trend, many studies have indicted the usefulness of small groups to help medical students improve communication skills (Derbyshire & Hunt, 1970), improve the doctor-patient relationship (Pollack & Manning, 1967), and deal with issues of sexuality (Woods & Natterson, 1967). In addition, sensitivity training and T-groups have been found to be valuable adjuncts to learning (Flach, 1971; Yalom & Moos, 1965; Seguin, 1965). Indeed, in all areas of education in the country today, experiential approaches have been introduced to improve motivation and depth of Learning. While these developments have been occurring in medical curricula, the field of mental health has also experienced rapid change. The last two decades have seen the emergence of group psychotherapy, family therapy, and community mental health, growing from what at first appeared to be fringe movements within

Art as a community mental health tool

Community mental health programs are increasingly concerned with problems of communication. This paper will describe the various ways the communications arts were utilized within the context of a ghetto-based community mental health center. Particular emphasis is placed on the role of the arts in the training of nonprofessional mental health workers and in facilitating the community development aspects of the Centers program.