The Role of the Psychologist in Determining Competence for Assisted Suicide/euthanasia in the Terminally Ill

Galbraith, Kim M, Dobson, Keith S, Canadian Psychology

Abstract

This paper discusses the history of assisted suicide/euthanasia and public attitudes in Canada; discusses depression in the terminally ill and the potential role of the psychologist in the assisted suicide/euthanasia process; and specifically addresses the importance of determining competence in terminally ill patients. One area in which the services of psychologists have not been used to their fullest potential is in the care of the terminally ill, particularly in helping them make end-of-life decisions. It is very important that individuals making end-of-life decisions be assessed for mental disorders in order to ensure they are able to make competent decisions. If …

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Publication information: Article title: The Role of the Psychologist in Determining Competence for Assisted Suicide/euthanasia in the Terminally Ill. Contributors: Galbraith, Kim M - Author, Dobson, Keith S - Author. Journal title: Canadian Psychology. Volume: 41. Issue: 3 Publication date: August 2000. Page number: 174+. © Canadian Psychological Association Aug 1996. Provided by ProQuest LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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