United States: US courses on the ethics of prescribing psychiatric drugs to children. Learn about risks, benefits, and consent.
In this course, Dr. Anusha Lachman explores the ethics of prescribing psychiatric medications to children. She helps U.S. health professionals weigh the risks and benefits of psychiatric interventions for young people, addressing the vulnerability of children, potential effects of medication on brain and developmental trajectories, and the need for context-sensitive prescribing. Off-label prescribing, neuro-enhancers, age of consent, autonomy, and beneficence are also discussed. The course is relevant to psychologists, pediatricians, psychiatrists, and other professionals involved in the care or referral of children for psychiatric medication.
Dr. Anusha Lachman provides an insightful exploration of the ethical considerations involved in prescribing psychiatric medications to children. This talk assists health professionals in navigating the complex balance of risks and benefits when making decisions about psychiatric interventions for young people.
Key ethical concerns discussed include the vulnerability of the child population, potential impacts of psychiatric drugs on brain and developmental trajectories, and the importance of context-sensitive prescribing. The presentation also covers topical issues such as off-label prescribing, the use of neuro-enhancers, and the ethical principles relating to age of consent, autonomy, and beneficence.
This talk is essential for psychologists, pediatricians, psychiatrists, and other health professionals involved in the care or referral of children for psychiatric medication.
Sections
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this talk, participants will be able to:
Identify key ethical considerations in prescribing psychiatric medications to children
Evaluate the risks and benefits of psychiatric drug use within the context of a child’s developmental needs
Discuss the implications of off-label prescribing and neuro-enhancer use in pediatric populations
Apply ethical principles such as autonomy, beneficence, and age of consent to clinical decision-making
Support informed, sensitive referral decisions for psychiatric intervention in children