Abstract
This article explores a child's right to refuse medical treatment, in contrast to giving the state or the parents this choice. The article specifically explores a child's right to refuse psychotropic drugs, which are more limiting of personal liberty than physical restraints and can have long-lasting side effects. With a focus on children's competence and the significant side effects of psychotropic drugs, the author concludes that caseworkers do not know the best interests of children in state custody and thus adolescents should be allowed to make their own decisions about psychotropic medications.
First Page
183
Recommended Citation
Stephen
A.
Talmadge
Who Should Determine What Is Best for Children in State Custody Who Object to Psychotropic Medication?,
15
Annals Health L.
183
(2006).
Available at: https://lawecommons.luc.edu/annals/vol15/iss2/3