Behavioral scientist meets the practicing physician

Abstract

The difficulty of integrating behavioral science into family practice programs is discussed by identifying (1) the problems arising from behavioral scientists, and (2) the problems arising from physicians. Some of the behavioral science issues discussed are miscommunications regarding the difficulty of understanding human behavior and empathy, and "sets" that affect diagnostic procedures and physician-patient interactions. Contributory issues, discussed which arise from physicians include the post-Flexnerian model of medical practice and the question of values in the physician role.