Risk dignity is the idea that self-determination and the right to take responsible risks are essential to dignity and self-esteem and should not be denied by overly cautious caregivers concerned with their duty of care. The concept applies to adults in care, such as elderly caregivers, people with disabilities, and people with mental health problems. It also applies to children, including children with disabilities. Allowing people in care to take risks is often seen as a counter to the duty of caregivers to care. It can be difficult to balance these conflicting considerations when developing policies and guidelines for caregiving. Overprotection of people with disabilities results in low self-esteem and lower achievement because of the low expectations that accompany overprotection. Internalization of low expectations causes a person with a disability to believe that they are less capable than others in similar situations. In older people, overprotection can lead to learned dependency and reduced ability to care for themselves. Physical care can have positive outcomes and enable the individual to function at their full potential. However, if they are not included in the caregiving process, allowed to make decisions, and respectfully assisted in their daily activities, it is likely to lead to psychological harm by weakening and undermining the dignity of that individual.