Psychiatric Bulletin (2008) 32: 325-326. doi: 10.1192/pb.bp.107.019224
© 2008 The Royal College of Psychiatrists
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Opinion & Debate

Is psychiatry torn in different ethical directions?

Peter Lepping, Consultant Psychiatrist, Associate Medical Director and Honorary Senior Lecturer

Wrexham Academic Unit, Technology Park, Wrexham LL13 7YP, Wales, email: peter.lepping{at}new-tr.wales.nhs.uk

Declaration of interest

None.

Abstract

Psychiatry is the only specialty that uses legislation which is torn between utilitarian and rights-focused approaches. Although on the one hand this improves the opportunity for good outcome, on the other it reduces autonomous decision-making. Because psychiatry is the only medical speciality in this situation, this may cause stigmatisation and an inappropriate expectation on psychiatry to fulfil some kind of social policing role.




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