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The phenomenon of the incapability to take initiative and decisions which is apparent in comparatively high proportions amongst welfare cases leaving educational institutions has led to concern in the practical activities of the Department of Social Welfare of the Canton of Tessin regarding the future of these cases. Various authors have observed the same phenomenon. It has been described as a syndrome which conveys the impression of a psychic anaesthesia. It has the characteristics of a masked depression. In spite of the absence of exact figures it is already obvious that apart from the deplorable state of mind of these cases, they are likely to in the long run become an increasing financial burden to the social welfare services of the productive part of the community. Effective prevention would require a structure of social services as well as educational institutions which correspond to the natural phases of development, and where the necessary satisfaction of psychic needs typical of each phase of development is achieved in a natural community including children of various ages.

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