The risk-benefit calculation
The risk-benefit calculation for any drug assumes a correct diagnosis of the disorder. Many investigators and clinicians feel the current epidemic of child psychiatric disorders is largely due to inappropriate diagnosis. Evaluate the risk and benefits of using psychoactive drugs in children correctly diagnosed with a disorder versus those incorrectly diagnosed with a disorder. Consider the risks and benefits of not treating (drug treatment) a child because they are not correctly diagnosed with a disorder. In your evaluation summarize the natural course of the disorder, the drug action on the neurotransmitter systems in question, and the likelihood of short-term, long-term, and permanent positive and negative effects of drug treatment. Make sure to take into account the ethical dimension of this risk-benefit calculation.
Sample Solution
The use of psychoactive drugs in children is a complex issue due to the potential for both short-term and long-term risks associated with such treatment. When it comes to correctly diagnosing a disorder prior to any medical intervention, this step becomes especially important as an incorrect diagnosis can result in the unnecessary administration of drugs that may not be beneficial or even potentially harmful (Kessler et al., 2005).
When considering the risk/benefit calculation for administering psychotropic drugs to children correctly diagnosed with a disorder, research has found that certain medications can provide significant therapeutic benefits so long as they are used appropriately and under close supervision from a qualified healthcare professional (Gleason, 2016). In contrast, if these same medications were given to those incorrectly diagnosed with a disorder then they would likely have little benefit and potentially lead to serious negative consequences such as adverse effects on physical or psychological health (Kendall & Brady, 2019).
On the other hand when discussing the risks and benefits of not treating someone who is not correctly diagnosed with a disorder – while it’s true that by avoiding unneeded drug therapy we can eliminate potential side-effects like dependency or addiction issues associated with them – however failing to properly identify underlying issues may also mean that individuals don’t get access to the treatments they need which could ultimately lead more serious problems down the road if left unresolved(Landgraf et al., 2018).
In conclusion, psychoactive drugs should only be administered after careful evaluation based off accurate diagnoses has been conducted by qualified professionals. While correct diagnoses are essential for providing effective care by reducing exposure people unnecessary treatments due lack of accuracy – inaccurate diagnoses also come at their own cost too as individuals who truly need help might end up going without needed support if overlooked when evaluating cases.
