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Abstract
A multiple case sampling framework was used to produce a review and meta-analysis of the published cases of ECT administration with minors. An extensive search of the published literature located 217 minors who had been given ECT treatment between 1947 and 1996. These cases were analysed via demographic data ie gender, age and clinical data ie diagnostic criteria, presenting behaviours, mode of ECT administration, consent, index behaviours, drug therapies, outcomes and side-effects. Three behavioural predictors PB3 were identified which were associated with an increased likelihood of a minor receiving ECT. Interpretations of the analysis revealed that the data are at variance with psychiatrists' claims that ECT is given as a ' life saving' sic treatment for minors. Suicide was mentioned in only 5 of cases. Some speculative comments are also provided.