Reframing human rights-based approaches to the misuse of restraint. A binary approach is needed

Purpose The misuse of restrictive interventions including restraint, seclusion and pharmacological restraint is an increasing source of concern. This has led to calls to address the issue based on the principles of human rights. The purpose of this paper is to reflect on previously unaddressed aspects of adopting such an approach. Design/methodology/approach This paper uses frame analysis to critique what it suggests is a dominant uni dimensional frame of human rights i.e. one that excludes consideration of the human rights of the health and social care workforce. Findings It finds that the uni-dimensional frame is potentially flawed and should be rejected in favor of a binary perspective that recognises that preventing the misuse of restrictive interventions requires the authors to promote the human dignity of those in receipt and those involved in the provision of services. Research limitations/implications Such binary approaches have however not yet been empirically evaluated and further research is needed. Practical implications Reducing the misuse of restrictive interventions invariably though requires “whole organisation” strategies. In designing these initiatives services should include an explicit focus on the human dignity of staff. Social implications This focus should be reflected in policy initiatives whether at a local, regional or national level. Originality/value To date it appears that advocacy of uni dimensional human rights based approaches to restrictive intervention reduction has been uncritically accepted. This paper addresses that omission and proposes an alternative binary approach which may offer a greater likelihood of successfully addressing the root causes of restrictive intervention misuse.