Pasung: Physical restraint and confinement of the mentally ill in the community
2008

Study on Physical Restraint of Mentally Ill Individuals in Indonesia

Sample size: 15 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Minas Harry, Diatri Hervita

Primary Institution: Centre for International Mental Health, Melbourne School of Population Health, The University of Melbourne

Hypothesis

What are the clinical characteristics and reasons for physical restraint of mentally ill individuals in the community?

Conclusion

The study found that providing basic community mental health services allowed most individuals who had been restrained to receive treatment and be released from confinement.

Supporting Evidence

  • Fifteen cases of pasung were identified, with a majority diagnosed with schizophrenia.
  • Duration of restraint ranged from two to 21 years.
  • Most individuals had previous psychiatric treatment that was discontinued due to cost.

Takeaway

This study looked at people in Indonesia who were physically restrained because of their mental illness, and it showed that when they got proper help, most were able to be treated and freed.

Methodology

Cross-sectional observational research conducted over six months in a natural setting.

Potential Biases

Potential bias due to reliance on family and community reports for diagnosis and reasons for restraint.

Limitations

Limited follow-up information and reliance on self-reported data from families and community members.

Participant Demographics

Participants included 15 individuals, 8 males and 7 females, aged 25 to 56, predominantly diagnosed with schizophrenia.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1752-4458-2-8

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