Introduction There remains little doubt today of the therapeutic effectiveness of the ataractic drugs in the treatment of the acute schizophrenic. However, their long-range effectiveness is less well established. Predictions concerning the projected effect vary from a reduction of 25% among the chronically ill to abolition of the large state hospitals. The question then arises as to the permanence or impermanence of the advantages these drugs offer the schizophrenic—namely, whether a change has occurred in the percentage who eventually become chronic. Also, more up to date information concerning the probability of release and readmission is needed to enable the patient, the doctor, the hospital, and the government to formulate realistic plans for the future. It would be valuable to be able to cite with some accuracy the probability of release for the newly admitted patient, the probable length of stay and the likelihood of remaining