[Coercive measures as dysfunctional affect regulation strategy]

Coercive measures in mental health care can cause considerable stress for those affected. The long-term consequences for mental function have received little attention to date. Here, we present the case of an adolescent user who was frequently subjected to mechanical restraint. From a learning theory perspective, repeated restraint created an association between coercive measures and reducing internal tension that was maladaptive. This case study demonstrates that frequent coercive measures can have a negative impact on emotional regulation.