[An approach concentrated on the individual--possibilities of use in general medical practice]

Abstract

On the clinical image of disease does not only consist of the typical symptoms of illness, but also depends upon the patients emotional experience which can modify the course of disease and therapy. It needs to form the therapeutical relations patient-physician, which will be able to take influence upon the emotional state of patient. C. Rogers's "Person-centered approach" create such possibility. It has application in the clinical practice in psychiatry and psychology but it seems that in can be useful in the general medical practice. The attitude of the therapeutist in relationship with patients has to express with congruence, unconditional positive regard and empathic understanding. The ability of empathical perception of patient's emotional state is one of very important physician's skills and influences on the patient's level of satisfaction with medical care. The "Person-centered approach" utilizes the inherent tendency of the patient to develop all his capacities of personality in the therapeutical process.