Lecture on the Principle of Normalization

Introduction to Key Figures

• Three leading Scandinavian figures involved:
  • Erik Niels Bank Mikkelsen
  • Bengt Nirje
  • Carl Grunewald
• Dr. Robert Kugel initiated a policy guide for the President's Committee on Mental Retardation.
  • Dr. Kugel was the dean of the medical school at the University of Nebraska.

Development of the Normalization Principle

• Efforts to create a document with contributions from the three Scandinavians.
• Bengt Nirje coined the term "Normalization Principle."
  • Emphasized providing as normal conditions as possible for mentally retarded persons.
  • Lectures supported by illustrative slides.

Key Assumptions

• Institutional reform requires attention to the residential services continuum.
• Consideration of the entire service system, both residential and non-residential.

Impact of the Published Book

• The book became a cornerstone for reform proposals.
• Distributed widely by the President's Committee, instrumental in reforming institutional services.
• Translated into Danish and Swedish as they lacked literature on the topic.

Evolution and Expansion of the Concept

• Expanded from mental retardation to all societally devalued people.
• Related to sociological literature, role theory, and dehumanization.
• Attempted publication in mental retardation journals faced delays and rejection.

Publication of "The Principle of Normalization in Human Services"

• Written as a response to journal rejection.
• Published in early 1973.
• Became a bestseller in Canada.
• Promoted community services and normalization in Canada.

Reception and Challenges

• Published article in the American Journal of Psychiatry.
  • Faced resistance and hostility from psychiatric circles.
  • Coverage in Newsweek highlighted cultural issues in psychiatric institutions.

Conclusion

• Overview of the history and challenges faced in promoting the normalization principle.
• Continued challenges in achieving acceptance in certain sectors, such as mental health.
• Introduction to successors like social role valorization.