Which organization helped introduce moral treatment ideas to the United States?

The Society of Friends, commonly known as the Quakers, played a pivotal role in introducing moral treatment concepts to the United States during the early 19th century. This approach emphasized the importance of treating individuals with mental illness with compassion, dignity, and respect, contrasting sharply with the prevailing practices of the time, which often involved inhumane treatment. Quakers advocated for a more humane approach, promoting the idea that people with mental health issues could benefit from a structured environment, meaningful activities, and social interaction.

This moral treatment movement laid the foundation for various therapeutic practices within occupational therapy, highlighting the significance of a holistic approach that considers not just the physical aspects of treatment but also the psychological and social well-being of individuals.

The other organizations mentioned, while influential in their respective fields, did not specifically introduce moral treatment ideas to the United States. The American Psychological Association focuses primarily on psychology as a discipline; the National Institute of Mental Health concentrates on mental health research, policy, and prevention; and the World Health Organization is primarily involved in global health issues and policy rather than the historical development of mental health treatment methods in the U.S.