Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 8, 2026

The Resident-intruder Paradigm: A Standardized Test for Aggression, Violence and Social Stress
Published on: July 4, 2013
Professionals' attitudes toward reducing restraint: the case of seclusion in the Netherlands
Marjan van Doeselaar1, Peter Sleegers, Giel Hutschemaekers
1Gelderse Roos Research Institute for Professionalization, Wolfheze, The Netherlands. m.van.doeselaar@degelderseroos.nl
Introduction:
Despite public opinion and policy interventions, restraint remains a common practice. This is also the case in the Netherlands, where projects aimed to reduce seclusion, have not led to a decreased use of restraint. Is this lack of effectiveness related to attitudes of the professionals? The aim of this study was to explore the attitudes of professionals working in mental health care toward restraint.
Method:
A questionnaire with eight scales was constructed for measuring attitudes of professionals. Scores of 540 professionals were studied, using analysis of variance and cluster analysis and related to several personnel and organizational characteristics.
Results:
The more professionals were personally involved in seclusion, the more they believed in it. Three types of professionals were identified: Transformers, Doubters and Maintainers. More than half of the psychiatrists (56%) belonged to the type of maintainers. Nurses were more divided.
Conclusion:
Professionals working in clinical settings are not really opposed to restraint. This could explain the limited effects of innovation projects.
Related Concept Videos
Obedience
Nurses' Legal Responsibilities III
Cultivating a culture of collaboration and mutual respect among nurses transcends mere enhancement...
Naturalistic Observations
Accountability and Responsibility of a Nurse II
For example, a nurse demonstrating respect and compassion might listen attentively to a patient's concerns, provide comfort...
Ethical Standards II
Nurses are entrusted with upholding various ethical principles and standards. Nurses forge solid therapeutic relationships using trust, empathy, autonomy, confidentiality, and professional competence.
Confidentiality is crucial, embodying respect for individual privacy and...
Deindividuation