blog




  • Essay / Sterilization for children with disabilities - 1221

    Sterilization is a complex procedure and has sparked debate around the world about whether treatment should be recommended for children with disabilities, primarily targeting young girls starting their periods (Caralis, Kodner and Brown, 2009). People around the world debate whether sterilization is an ethically appropriate treatment for children with disabilities. Some argue that this is best for their children and others suggest that it violates the child's basic human rights (Freckelton, 2008). The case study report discusses the increase in sterilization of children with disabilities in Australia. The proceedings took place mostly without the authority of the court or tribunal where they played a major role. The involvement of the court or tribunal is necessary because the High Court announced in 1992 that parents have neither the right nor the power to give consent to the sterilization of their children (Reproductive Health Matters, 2013). Mr Innes, the federal disability commissioner, suggests sterilization should only be carried out in a situation where a person's life is in danger. Involuntary sterilization of children with disabilities continues to be a debated topic across Australia with varying opinions coming from parents of children with disabilities. Some are in favor of sterilizing their children because it gives them a better quality of life and the other half are against this procedure because it violates their basic human rights. Patient education about sterilization in Australia should be targeted, as other treatment options are not considered. Since sterilization is an invasive procedure, it should be the treatment of last resort for the client due to the risk (Roy, 2010). Sterilization of a minor child deprives him of human rights and middle of paper.... ...to persons with mental capacity. Mental illness should be given less importance than human rights and dignity. Illnesses should not affect how we treat a person because they should be respected and given the same human rights as an ordinary person. People face discrimination every day due to their illness and are denied their basic human rights. People with mental illness are particularly affected, as their opinions are not taken into account in decision-making. Powers are granted either to the parents or to the court or tribunal (Freckelton, 2008). In conclusion, sterilization remains a hot topic with arguments for and against the treatment. Worldwide, broader education on sterilization should be implemented for both physicians and clients. The case study showed the lack of education in the disability sector regarding sterilization, particularly in Australia..