The Goldwater Rule History

The Goldwater Rule History

Shrink Speak

The Goldwater Rule is Section 7 in the American Psychiatric Association's (APA) Principles of Medical Ethics, which states that it is unethical for psychiatrists to give a professional opinion about public figures whom they have not examined in perso...

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35:151 Nov 2020

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The Goldwater Rule: Psychiatry Meets Politics

It's critical that we be aware of our history, because it really helps to inform how we manage and deal with and understand current events, instead of repeating them without learning from the past.

Ever wondered why psychiatrists avoid diagnosing public figures they've never met? This episode of 'Shrink Speak' dives into the fascinating history of the Goldwater Rule, a guideline that keeps mental health professionals from giving opinions on public figures without an in-person evaluation. Dr. Jeffrey Lieberman is joined by two esteemed guests: Barry Goldwater Jr., son of the rule's namesake and former California Congressman, and Dr. Paul Appelbaum, a leading expert in psychiatry, medicine, and law.

Together, they unravel the story behind this ethical standard, its legal ramifications, and its lasting impact on the field of psychiatry. You'll hear how the rule came about during Barry Goldwater Sr.'s presidential campaign and how it continues to shape the way mental health is discussed in the public sphere. This conversation is not just for mental health professionals but for anyone interested in the intersection of ethics, law, and politics.

Tune in to understand why respecting these boundaries is crucial for both the profession and society at large.

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