Recognition can leave room for disagreement in the doctor-patient consultation.

OBJECTIVE

We wanted to explore how recognising interaction, as described by psychologist Schibbye, is played out in a patient doctor encounter including the behaviour of both parties and their simultaneous communication.

METHODS

We selected videotapes from five doctor-patient encounters where a recognising attitude was identified. The episodes were analysed using a qualitative method for studying interaction and relationship at the micro-level. We describe an episode which is suitable for demonstrating how a recognizing attitude can leave room for disagreement.

RESULTS

The doctor's recognising attitude with a basic respect for the other person's experience perspective has a crucial effect on the doctor-patient relationship. In this consultation, the doctor succeeds in taking the patient's experience perspective by listening, wondering and exploring to check that he has interpreted the patient correctly. A potential conflict situation arises, but there is no conflict. When the relationship is characterised by recognition, disagreement is allowed, without doing any damage.

CONCLUSION

Schibbye's ideas and terms can provide new perspectives on the doctor-patient interaction.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

For the doctor, a fundamental respect for the patient's perspective may make it easier to tolerate when patients have values and preferences that conflict with the doctor or with sound medical practice.