Institutionalised for Dummies

Institutionalised is a word that might sound a bit complicated at first, but don't worry, I'm here to break it down for you in a way that is easy to understand! So, have you ever wondered what happens when people live in a building together for a long time? Well, sometimes, they develop their own rules and ways of doing things, kind of like a big family.

Now, imagine taking that idea and applying it to a bigger, organized group of people, like a school, hospital, or even a prison. These groups have their own way of doing things, also called "rules" and "routines." They are set up to help everyone function smoothly and keep things organized. When we say someone is "institutionalized," it means they have become so used to that specific way of doing things that it becomes difficult for them to adjust or function outside of that environment. It's almost like they have become so comfortable with the routines and rules of the institution that it becomes a part of who they are.

Let me give you an example. You know how when you go to school, you have a schedule to follow? You have set times for different subjects, lunch break, and even recess. You know where your classroom is, and you know who your teacher is. You become familiar with the routines and expectations of the school. Now imagine if you suddenly had to go to a different school with a completely different schedule and different rules. It might feel confusing and strange for a while because you were used to the way things were done in your previous school. The feeling of being institutionalized is similar, but on a larger scale.

Sometimes, people who are in places like hospitals or long-term care facilities for a long time might find it challenging to adjust to life outside of those environments. This is because they have become so accustomed to the routines, structure, and way of life within those institutions that it feels uncomfortable or unfamiliar to be in a different setting. It's like they have gotten used to the walls, the people, and the routines within the institution, and they struggle to adapt to something new.

On a different note, "institutionalized" can also have another meaning. It can refer to something becoming an established or accepted norm in society. Have you ever noticed that certain behaviors or traditions are considered normal or expected by many people? Well, those behaviors or traditions can be seen as "institutionalized." It's like they have become deeply rooted in our society and are accepted as the way things should be.

To wrap it up, "institutionalized" means either becoming so used to the routines and structures of an institution that it becomes difficult to adjust to a different environment, or it can refer to something becoming a widely accepted norm in society. It's all about how groups of people develop their own rules and ways of doing things, and how individuals can become so accustomed to those rules that breaking away from them becomes a challenge.