Impact of Psychopharmacology on Deinstitutionalization 

The advancements in drugs for psychiatric illness erupted in 1954 when Thorazine was put on the market. Nearly two million people were treated with this drug for psychosis. Drugs that were developed were used to reduce anxiety, discomfort and bizarre behavior. These tranquilizing drugs were used to modify the emotional effects of the psychiatric disorders without impairing intellectual functioning. As a result, patients were able to become participating members of the community (Bloom, 1977).