Most of the research that examines patient complaints and attitudes was done by the very doctors that administered the ECT. This creates a problem for patients who might want to say something negative, but are intimidated by their doctor's presence during the interview.

The studies that exist also do not follow the patients for a prolonged length of time.

Two key studies on patient complaints/attitudes are "Patients Who Complain," by Freeman, Weeks and Kendell, and the Voices Study by Juli Lawrence.

next: What does CMHS Director Dr. Bernard Arons Say about Consumer/Survivors?