#StopTheShock: A Campaign Exposing the Dangers of Aversive Shock Conditioning and Supporting Legislative Action

In the realm of disability care, aversive conditioning through the use of electric shock devices has raised serious concerns. At the forefront is the Judge Rotenberg Center (JRC) in Massachusetts, the only facility in the United States and Europe that still administers these devices. This practice involves subjecting individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities to traumatic experiences that leave long-lasting physical and psychological scars. Not only does this violate human rights, but it also lacks scientific basis and effectiveness.

The JRC's use of electric skin shock devices, such as the Graduated Electronic Decelerator (GED), is alarmingly strong and six times more powerful than a police taser. Shock therapy has been found to reinforce self-injurious behaviors and lacks a reliable method for withdrawal. Moreover, residents often struggle to connect their behavior to the shocks, leading to unwanted social side effects. This raises significant ethical concerns and necessitates the exploration of alternative, evidence-based approaches.

The lack of scientific literature supporting electric shock therapy, the numerous allegations of mistreatment and abuse at the JRC, and the FDA's recognition of the substantial risk these devices pose underscore the urgent need for change. It is crucial to educate the public about the harmful effects of aversive conditioning and advocate for the well-being, dignity, and rights of those in care. Together, we can work towards ending this practice and promoting compassionate, evidence-based approaches that prioritize the welfare of individuals with disabilities.

H.180, titled "An Act Regarding the Use of Aversive Therapy," is a legislative measure in Massachusetts that protects the human rights of those with disabilities. It prohibits aversive shock therapy, physical abuse, and the withholding of food, water or bedding to any disabled person in a hospital or long term care facility. H. 180 clearly states that a disability does not make a patient “fair game” for abuse. These protections extend to the over 48,000 in long term care facilities, over 44% of whom have suffered some form of institutional abuse. 

Join us on May 22, 2023, at 12pm EST on the Boston Common across from the State House for a peaceful protest. Together, we can send a powerful message.

Massachusetts Constituents: Sign up for Hill Day on May 23rd 2023 and register for Hill Day training meeting Friday May 19th 12PM EST

Join the #StopTheShock Campaign:

We need your help! Join #StopTheShock campaign to take action and raise awareness against the use of skin shock therapy at JRC, and for the human rights of all disabled patients in Massachusetts. Together, we can make a difference.

MA Constituents: Contact your representatives directly, urge them to support and vote YES on H.180.

Supporters: Petition the Joint Committee on Children, Families, and Persons with Disabilities in Massachusetts

Use our template letter to send in your organization's letter, or sign on to our multi-org letter to support H.180

Please forward this newsletter to your contacts and share the #StopTheShock posts on facebook.