Canvas straitjacket for adults, London, England, 1930-1960

Canvas straitjacket for restraining adult patients, made in London, England, c.1930-1960, and used at the Frenchay Hospital, Bristol.

This straitjacket restrained adult patients in psychiatric hospitals during the 1930s through to the 1960s. It is made of heavy canvas. It has four ties on the main body and excessively long arms. These wrap around and tie behind the back. Such garments restricted the movements of patients considered violent or unruly. Their use was phased out when anti-psychotic drugs and more ‘humane’ methods of management were introduced.