Patient participation in decision-making in cases of psychosis/schizophrenia or neuropsychiatric conditions (ADHD and autism spectrum conditions)

Background
The project concerns the level of involvement of patients diagnosed with psychosis/schizophrenia and neuropsychiatric conditions (ADHD and autism spectrum conditions) in decision-making about their treatment. Both groups of conditions are highly topical at present and in recent years there have been important advances in knowledge and treatment alternatives, particularly with respect to the autism groups. Characteristic for both conditions is the fact that patient autonomy tends to be weak and vulnerable. It can be difficult to determine the level of patient involvement in decision-making and acceptance of treatment plans. For these reasons it is important to highlight the experiences described in the literature with respect to these issues. In treatment of psychosis the law on enforced commitment for psychiatric care can also be applied and sometimes even the law on forensic psychiatric care: under these circumstances the question of patient involvement in decision-making has particularly important implications.
In cases of both schizophrenia and autism, the guardian has both a legal and a practical influence on a patient who has not yet come of age. In such cases, questions of next of kin become particularly important.
 
Aims
The purpose of the report is to address the question of how patients and/or next of kin perceive their level of involvement in decision-making about treatment of their condition. This should be assessed from the standpoint of the individual’s expectations and experiences.