Agency vs passivity
As humans, we make choices and are generally
held accountable for our actions. We
do not usually see ourselves as totally passive
or determined but as having the potential
to live and act within limits; seeing
ourselves as having a sense of freedom
appears to be linked to social, physical and
mental health (Stansfeld et al, 2002).
Ensuring we maintain patients’ sense of
agency offers another way of viewing individuals
that helps us to make sure that
choice and accountability are woven into
interactions and interventions. We have to
consider the possibilities that enable individuals
to manage their care.