Investigate Development Case Death With Dignity Physician ✓ Solved

Investigate Development Case Death With Dignity Physician Assisted

Investigate Development Case: Death with Dignity / Physician-Assisted Suicide MAKE A DECISION: Is Ben's decision making being affected by his depression? Yes No Why? Give reasons for why you chose the way you did. Consider the following factors in your reasons: The effects of depression on decision making Other stresses in Ben's life contributing to his state of mind Ben's current quality of life The family's values and beliefs Your own values and beliefs Please see attachment.

Sample Paper For Above instruction

In evaluating whether Ben's decision regarding death with dignity and physician-assisted suicide is influenced by his depression, it is essential to analyze multiple aspects of his psychological, social, and personal circumstances. This comprehensive assessment involves understanding the impact of depression on decision-making, considering other stressors in his life, and reflecting upon his current quality of life, family values, and personal beliefs.

Understanding Depression and Its Effects on Decision-Making

Depression is a complex mental health disorder that can significantly impair cognitive functions, including judgment, reasoning, and decision-making capabilities (APA, 2020). Research indicates that individuals experiencing depression may have a persistent negative outlook, feelings of hopelessness, and diminished ability to consider future consequences objectively (Harvey et al., 2017). In Ben's case, if his depression is severe, it could cloud his judgment, leading him to make impulsive or overly negative decisions, such as choosing assisted death due to feelings of despair rather than autonomous, well-considered desire.

Additional Stresses Contributing to Ben’s Mental State

Beyond depression, external stresses such as chronic illness, financial hardship, loss of autonomy, or strained relationships can exacerbate feelings of despair (Bartley et al., 2019). If Ben is under significant stress unrelated solely to depression, these factors might sway his decision-making process, potentially leading him to perceive death as a relief or escape. Understanding the interplay of these factors is critical to ascertain whether his choice stems from autonomous reasoning or is influenced predominantly by emotional distress.

Assessing Ben’s Current Quality of Life

Quality of life assessments encompass physical health, psychological well-being, social support, and personal fulfillment (Beauchamp & Childress, 2013). If Ben’s current state involves unbearable pain, loss of independence, or severe physical decline, these conditions might justify his pursuit of death with dignity from a compassionate perspective. Conversely, if his quality of life has potential for improvement or adaptation, his choice might be influenced by his depression rather than an objective assessment of his circumstances.

Influence of Family Values and Personal Beliefs

Family values and cultural or religious beliefs play a crucial role in shaping attitudes toward death, autonomy, and euthanasia (Smahel et al., 2020). In some cultures, family members may either support or oppose assisted suicide, affecting the individual's decision. Personal beliefs about the sanctity of life, autonomy, and the moral acceptability of physician-assisted death influence whether Ben feels free to make an independent choice or is swayed by external pressures.

Personal Reflection and Ethical Considerations

From an ethical standpoint, autonomy is a fundamental principle in end-of-life decisions (Beauchamp & Childress, 2013). However, when mental health conditions like depression impair decision-making, assessments should consider whether the choice is truly autonomous or involuntarily influenced. If depression clouds Ben’s judgment, additional psychiatric evaluation may be necessary before honoring his decision. Conversely, if his decision is made after thorough deliberation and reflects his values and desires, respecting his autonomy aligns with ethical standards.

Conclusion

Based on the assessment of depression's impact, external stressors, Ben's quality of life, and familial and personal values, it appears plausible that depression significantly influences his decision-making process. Depression can diminish rational judgment and foster feelings of hopelessness, which may lead Ben to opt for death with dignity out of despair rather than autonomous choice. Therefore, it is ethically prudent to ensure that Ben's decision is made voluntarily, free from the impairing effects of depression, potentially through mental health evaluation and support before proceeding with physician-assisted death.

References

• American Psychiatric Association. (2020). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.).
• Harvey, S. B., et al. (2017). The impact of depression on decision-making and personal autonomy. Journal of Mental Health, 26(1), 19-24.
• Bartley, K., et al. (2019). External stressors and mental health in terminally ill patients. Palliative & Supportive Care, 17(4), 396-402.
• Beauchamp, T. L., & Childress, J. F. (2013). Principles of Biomedical Ethics (7th ed.). Oxford University Press.
• Smahel, D., et al. (2020). Cultural and familial influences on end-of-life decisions. Ethnicity & Health, 25(7), 902-917.