What do we do with those who suffer psychological disorders but refuse treatment, particularly if they represent a danger to themselves or others?
What do we do with those who suffer psychological disorders but refuse treatment, particularly if they represent a danger to themselves or others? This program explores the issue by looking at two case studies. Charles, diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, awaits trial after menacing passengers on a Long Island train. Prior to the incident, Charles, who had returned home to live with his parents, stopped taking his medication and gradually deteriorated into incoherence and impulsiveness. At one point, his parents had to call the police for help. Charles is now taking his medication. Nonetheless, if the courts find him guilty of attempted assault, he will be sent to prison. Jay, who suffers from bipolar disorder, takes medication under a new law that forces people into treatment. Before Jay was under order to take medication, he suffered hallucinations and delusions, neglected his own care, collected garbage off the streets, and harassed strangers.