Autonomy versus coercion: reconciling competing perspectives in community mental health

Clinicians working in community mental health must currently attempt to reconcile competing practice perspectives: on the one hand consumer-driven approaches, and on the other hand a move to more paternalistic practices, advocated by family support groups, and reflected in assertive treatment programs and legislative initiatives such as community treatment orders. This article reviews these different perspectives, and offers some comments on practice guidelines for those working in this clinically and politically complex environment.