Thesis (M.S.)--Boston University / The purpose ot this thesis is to compare two groups of patients, namely those who were given an immediate appointment following intake and those who were assigned after a waiting period. The study is confined to patients treated by social workers in the Boston Veterans Administration Mental Hygiene Clinic. It aims to learn what similarities and differences exist between the two groups; the effect ot a waiting period on patient's stay in treatment; and to determine the relationship of a number of factors to length, and outcome of treatment. According to the literature more stress is placed on motivation in relation to patient's sta7 in treatment than another factor. "The major purpose of the intake interview is to determine motivation, which is important in assessing the patient's treatment potential."2 This study is also curious to learn whether there is a relationship between motivation and length of treatment. It is hoped that this study may show what factors indicate further consideration with regard to patients placed on the waiting list.