The Clinical Situation in Psychotherapy, Dependency Government, and Applied Anthropology

Abstract

At a recent seminar where "Perspectives in Psychiatry" was the topic of discussion,1 I was struck by a parallel development in modern psychiatry, dependency government administration, and applied anthropology. The psychiatrists made several points, emphasizing a change which has occurred in the concepts of "patient" and of "therapist," as well as in the role of each in the clinical situation, and in the relationship between the two. From being regarded almost like lower animals unworthy of humane consideration, or as fallen souls possessed by demons, or as sinners being justly punished by the Lord, the mentally ill have gradually come to be viewed as persons. As such, they are treated as sick people who respond sensitively to their environments and, if given adequate treatment, have a good chance to recover.2 At the same time, the therapist's role has evolved from that of witch doctor or custodian to that of personal friend, adviser, and therapist. A new component has emerged in the situation—namely, the warm personal relationship between therapist and patient whereby not only the patient but also the doctor may gain in personal growth.