This paper offers a contribution to the research on the use of seclusion by focusing specifically on gender. The study was carried out in a special hospital which provides care in conditions of high security. Data were collected on all seclusions over a one-year period which resulted in a database of 823 episodes of seclusion. The results indicate that female patients account for more seclusions than their male counterparts and that they are secluded more often but for shorter durations. Whereas the mentally ill category are subject to more seclusions it is the psychopathically disordered classification that is responsible for more female episodes. Further research is under way to examine the reasons for the disparities.
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