Do mental or somatic diagnoses influence emotional response and perception of physician-assisted suicide in Germany? A vignette-based experiment.

BACKGROUND

Physician-assisted suicide (PAS) is increasingly being legalized in a growing number of countries and is the focus of societal and ethical debates. However, there is limited knowledge regarding the perception and acceptance of PAS across different physical and mental health conditions. This study aimed to explore emotional responses, understanding, and willingness to support individuals with the wish for PAS.

METHODS

Participants from the general German population (N = 512) were presented with four case vignettes of PAS depicting individuals in an online study: one with cancer, one with depression, one with schizophrenia, and one healthy individual. Participants were asked to evaluate the emotional reactions elicited by the desire for PAS, the extent of their understanding of this wish, and their willingness to support each individual.

RESULTS

The study revealed significant differences in reactions to the case vignettes. Pro-social emotions were lowest and anger highest when considering the healthy individual. Participants demonstrated the greatest understanding and highest willingness to support the individual with cancer, while the least understanding and support were observed for the healthy person.

CONCLUSIONS

The differential levels of support for PAS across various conditions underscore the complex interplay between societal values, perceived quality of life, and ethical considerations, particularly when mental health is involved.