One of the basic elements of the relationship between oppressor and oppressed is prescription.
– Paolo Freire

These days we rarely use the term except in the medical sense, to set out or pre determine beforehand [in writing], but it is interesting how a medical prescription has become such a powerful tool in the service of one group seeking to control others deemed “too different”.

As Freire makes clear, prescription is a basic element of oppression. 

When we take it upon ourselves to tell another what they need
we deny them the opportunity to decide and choose for themselves.

And we deny them the opportunity to learn how.