ABSTRACT
What to do with boys who have problems similar to Douglas's is a subject of considerable debate. It is quite probable that many of these boys' development could be favorably influenced if they were given psychotherapy adjusted to their needs and capacities. At the same time, however, the effectiveness of psychotherapy for them has been challenged and judged as too expensive. How the future will be for young people in Douglas's situation depends not only on whether they achieve a greater emotional well-being, but also on external factors in society. To obtain a job with set working hours can be crucial for a young person who has completed therapy to strengthen his self-esteem. Psychotherapy is one of several necessary measures to employ to make it possible for these young people to live a decent, worthwhile life as adults. Society needs grown-ups who are able to control themselves, who think before they act and not the other way around.
