Obligatory Dangerousness Criterion

[1] The term "dangerousness" refers to one's ability to hurt oneself or others physically or mentally within an imminent time frame,[2] and the harm caused must have a long-term effect on the person(s).

[3] Psychiatric hospitals and involuntary commitment have been around for hundreds and even thousands of years around the world, but the obligatory dangerousness criterion was created in the United States in the 1900s.

First is the Latin phrase parens patriae, which translates to "parent of his or her nation",[8] which "assigns to the government a responsibility to intervene on behalf of citizens who cannot act in their own best interest".

[2] After their establishment, anyone could be admitted to a psychiatric hospital if a family member brought them and a physician agreed to provide a treatment.

Supporters claim that the criterion is necessary in order to ensure that those who are in vital need of psychiatric care will receive it, and to prevent the mentally ill individual from potentially harming themselves or others.

Some believe it denies the individual of consent, is discriminatory based on mental health,[5] and may increase the patient's risk of suicide, psychotic symptoms, or other harmful behaviors.

[4] Those who oppose an obligatory dangerousness criterion also argue that there are less restrictive alternatives to involuntary hospitalization that can help those with a mental illness.