Essay On Involuntary Commitment

It is not often that someone must be treated involuntarily. This occurs when “individuals have little or no awareness of their illness, i.e., they have anosognosia, and when they are not being treated with medication, they become dangerous to themselves or others” (What Is the Effect of Involuntary Medication on Individuals with Serious Mental Illness 1) Typically, being committed to a mental facility is followed by a diagnosis and prescription to control whatever disorder an individual may have. This diagnosis and treatment could potentially save the individual's life, as well as others that he or she may have harmed while untreated (Ward 263). The American people, however, are split on whether or not there are legitimate grounds for involuntary commitment. Those who support the practice of involuntary commitment are called “Paternalists” (Ward 263). These people believe that commitment to a mental facility is in the best interest of the individual.This group is comprised of mental health professionals, law enforcement …show more content…
“The American Psychiatric Association regularly takes positions on mental health matters, including those involving civil commitment... Data from 739 members of the American Psychiatric Association indicated support for relatively limited definitions of mental disorder for purposes of commitment” (Brooks 1). These individuals support involuntary commitment because they recognize and understand the effects that mental disorders can have on an individual. Although many people with mental disorders do not require involuntary commitment, some do. “In a previous study, 78 percent of psychiatrists surveyed viewed involuntary hospitalization as an indispensable treatment modality” (Brooks). Those who are unaware of the reality surrounding them, and those with violent tendencies are prime examples of why involuntary commitment is