Presentations of Self in Clinical Encounters
| Self | Theme | Prototypical Patient Issues | Prototypical Physician Concerns |
|---|---|---|---|
| A. I am. | Meaning | What is most important in my life? | How do I find meaning in my work with this patient? |
| B. I belong. | Community | With whom can I bear my problems? | What resources do I have at my disposal? |
| C. I can. | Agency | Do I have the capacity to get better? | How can I positively influence this patient’s health? |
| D. I dread. | Anxiety | I am worried–What about? | Will this patient improve or decline? |
| E. I exist. | Organism | What is wrong with my body? | What is the pathophysiology and treatment? |