What is it about?
Efforts to reduce restrictive practices (RPs) in mental health care are growing internationally. Yet, inconsistent definitions and perspectives often challenge the consistent implementation and evaluation of reduction strategies.This study explored which scenarios different mental health stakeholders classify as restrictive practices, examined the contextual factors influencing these classifications and compared classification patterns across clinicians, researchers, service users and family caregivers
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Why is it important?
This study underscores the need for internationally harmonized definitions and standardized classification systems for RPs, codesigned with diverse stakeholders, including clinicians, service users, family caregivers and researchers. Without such frameworks, efforts to measure, monitor and reduce RPs risk being undermined by inconsistent understanding and documentation. Embedding these definitions into training, reporting systems and research tools will support valid comparisons across settings, foster ethical and rights-based care, and ensure that reform efforts proceed with clarity, accountability and meaningful impact.
Perspectives
This study was part of an international research collaboration led by Zelalem Belayneh Muluneh whose exceptional dedication, leadership and vision made this work possible. This is an important part of Zelalem’s PhD. It has been a privilege to contribute as a co-author and to work alongside such a thoughtful, diverse, and truly global team. I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to learn from colleagues across different countries, disciplines, and perspectives.
Dr Lesley Barr
Edith Cowan University
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Diverging views between clinicians, service users, family caregivers and researchers on the classification of restrictive practices in mental health services, Epidemiology and Psychiatric Sciences, January 2025, Cambridge University Press,
DOI: 10.1017/s2045796025100322.
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