Question
Under principle 3 Mental Capacity Act (2005) which of the following are examples of an individual'right to make an eccentric or unwise decision. Refusing to take pain rellef Not wishing to see a Doctor Jumping off the top of a building All of these Only eating sweet food Smoking when the person has a respiratory condition
Answer
4.7
(83 Votes)
Nigel
Master · Tutor for 5 years
Answer
A, B, D, E
Explanation
Principle 3 of the Mental Capacity Act (2005), an Act of the Parliament in the UK, stipulates that a person is not to be treated as unable to make a decision merely because he makes an eccentric or unwise decision. Therefore, as stated in the question, an individual does have the right to make eccentric or unwise decisions according to this principle. Options detailing said decisions include - refusal to take pain relief, not wishing to seek medical help despite being unwell, perpetuating habits harmful for health like only eating sweet food and continuing to smoke despite suffering from a respiratory disorder. However, making a decision that directly threatens life or shows intention to instantly cause physical harm, like 'jumping off the top of a building', is mostly considered outside the scope of this principle due to its lethal nature. In such cases, necessary intervention might be required to protect the individual as it can be constituted a mental health crisis requiring emergency services.