The Goldwater Rule

The Goldwater Rule is a guideline in psychiatry that discourages mental health professionals from providing a diagnosis or opinion about someone's mental health without directly evaluating them. Established by the American Psychiatric Association in 1973, it arose after comments were made about U.S. Senator Barry Goldwater's mental fitness during the 1964 presidential campaign. The rule emphasizes the importance of direct examination and ethical responsibility, ensuring that assessments are based on thorough understanding rather than speculation or political bias. It aims to protect both the integrity of the profession and the individuals being assessed.