Euthanasia AND Psychologists

Attitudes, Roles, and Competencies of Clinical Psychologists Regarding Euthanasia due to Unbearable Mental Suffering

This study examined the attitudes, roles, and competencies of clinical psychologists in Flanders toward euthanasia in cases of UMS euthanasia. A total of 242 clinical psychologists participated in the survey. This study employed a cross-sectional quantitative design using an online questionnaire.

Overall, results indicated that clinical psychologists hold a predominantly positive attitude toward UMS euthanasia. The mean total score was 79.13, which is above the neutral midpoint score of 63.
Psychologists also endorsed their role in decision‑making and exploring alternatives (87.2%). Almost all (96.3%) felt responsible for discussing alternatives prior to a decision.
In terms of professional competencies, nearly half of the clinical psychologists in this study (47.1%) reported insufficient knowledge to adequately handle euthanasia requests, while 37.6% indicated that they lacked the necessary practical skills. Additionally, an overwhelming majority (94.2%) felt that euthanasia in the context of unbearable mental suffering was not adequately covered during their formal education or training.