Is this just wrong or is it me?

MamaMoo_2

goater78 wrote: »

I would suggest its similar to giving heroin addicts clean needles. If people are going to do things like this its probably a good idea to make sure the implements they use are clean.

Personally I think on this occasion it's better to assume that the trained professionals dealing with this have some idea of what they're doing. Despite the fact to a layman it seems ridiculous.

But it's not just like giving a heroin addict clean needles, it's like giving them the heroin too!
Admittedly, more information is needed, but at this boy's age, there are a myriad of other options that tackle the issue head on.
As I say, more information is needed as to why this was the option they chose, and what other options were used first, but it just doesn't seem an appropriate treatment for a child who potentially has a lot less control than an adult, and (again, working on assumptions) hasn't been self harming for long enough for there to be no way back.

dealer_wins

Take me back to the 1980s, the world has gone absolutely stark raving mad since then!!!

nlj1520

In Denmark they not only provide support for controlled self-harming it is illegal to interfere with someone who wishes to engage in it. Although all my instincts revolt at this, I do see that it's about the freedom to make 'bad' decisions and respecting the individuals right to make them. Under the Mental Capacity Act (I think) people have a legally enshrined right to make unwise decisions so long as they are judged to have capacity to do so. And that is something I support with all my heart.............I do have capacity and I do make unwise decisions sometimes...............why shouldn't everyone else if that's their choice?

murrayfan_2

I saw this story yesterday and was appalled. I'm an ex self-harmer (due to early abuse), and my Autistic son has also self-harmed at times in the past, due to frustration with his condition. There's no need to ever perpetuate the behaviour whilst supporting someone, there are alternatives (elastic bands to snap against arm, drawing on arm, ice cubes on skin - or just TALKING, being there for the person).

I would have gone ballistic if my son's school had ever done anything like this!!!!!.