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End of life decisions and assisted suicide
1Department of Psychology, 129 Psychology Research Building, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, USA. abeles@pilot.msu.edu
Abstract:
End of life decisions and hastened suicide are discussed following the passage of the Death With Dignity Act in Oregon in 1994. Case examples are presented including a vignette highlighting ethical issues. Arguments for and against suicide prevention are presented, and the pros and cons of rational suicide are detailed. The experience with physician-assisted suicide in the Netherlands is briefly presented, and it is noted that in rare cases physician-assisted suicide is permitted for individuals in the Netherlands suffering primarily from mental disorders. The role of the mental health professional in end of life decisions is discussed along with a description of the proposed work of the recently established American Psychological Association working group on assisted suicide and end of life decisions.
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