Because the alternative was also abuse. Forced shock therapy. Lobotomizing children. Court ordered sterilization. At least in the US, it's basically seen now a

Because the alternative was also abuse. Forced shock therapy. Lobotomizing children. Court ordered sterilization. At least in the US, it's basically seen now as a violation of due process to be imprisoned like that without committing any crime. Psychiatric services are on offer, but can be refused.