Social class and participation in outpatient care by schizophrenics.

Based on a random sample of male schizophrenics, the relationship between social class and involvement in outpatient treatment was investigated. It was found that the likelihood of utilizing outpatient facilities is significantly related to social class status, lower-class patients being less often involved. Participation in outpatient treatment was also assessed in relation to severity of pathology, marital status, and hospitalization. The results are discussed in terms of self selection and professional selectivity.