The Right to Effective Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Treatment: An Ethics Perspective and Mandated Treatment
Abstract
The outcomes of mandated substance use disorder (SUD) treatment, although well-researched, remain controversial. Viewed as a binary choice focusing on autonomy and societal well-being, unsuccessful treatment outcomes are attributed to the referral source. Reasons for mandated treatment failures stem from structural barriers and misaligned treatment needs with available options. Referral pathways and ethical viewpoints should not be dichotomous. Ethical concepts are guidelines when considering the impact SUD has on individual decision-making. Effective treatment can be restorative and simultaneously uphold the right to autonomy. This stigmatized population deserves treatment encompassing a comprehensive approach that addresses barriers, regardless of the referral source.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Substance Abuse Treatment and Outcomes
Healthcare Decision-Making and Restraints
Ethics and bioethics in healthcare
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Journal of Professional Counseling Practice Theory & Research
- Volume
- 53
- Issue
- 2
- Pages
- 92–106
- Publication date
- 28 January 2026
- Language
- EN