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Civil commitment of the mentally ill: an overview
The Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science
|February 9, 1986
Summary
Historical themes and critiques of civil commitment criteria from the 1960s-70s are examined. Current standards may hinder commitment for seriously ill patients, prompting discussion of an alternative scheme.
Area of Science:
- Legal Studies
- Psychiatry
- Social Sciences
Background:
- The mid-20th century saw significant reforms in civil commitment laws.
- These reforms aimed to balance individual liberties with public safety.
- Historical context is crucial for understanding current legal frameworks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the historical factors driving civil commitment reforms.
- To critique the substantive criteria established during the 1960s and 1970s.
- To propose an alternative framework for civil commitment.
Main Methods:
- Historical analysis of legal and social themes.
- Critical evaluation of commitment criteria.
- Discussion of alternative legal schemes.
Main Results:
- The article identifies key historical influences on civil commitment legislation.
- Critiques suggest current criteria overemphasize external indicators of mental illness.
- This focus can impede necessary commitment for severely affected individuals.
Conclusions:
- Reforms of the 1960s-70s have had lasting impacts on civil commitment.
- Existing criteria may be too narrow, creating barriers to care.
- Alternative commitment models warrant consideration for improved patient care.