Commentary on McGlashan/Nayfack and Money/Lobato case studies.
In this initial discussion for Psychiatry's series of case studies, I will be emphasizing two special contributions that can be made by single case and small sample reports, which are exemplified by the McGlashan/Nayfack paper and by the Money/Lobato study that appeared in the February 1988 issue of Psychiatry. The first contribution provides a unique perspective on the significance of therapist orientation in influencing the course of a patient's disorder and life. The second illustrates the use of a small sample study for understanding complex processes determining the onset and evolution of disorder. The McGlashan/Nayfack report is one of those rare case histories in which we have the opportunity to see the completion of a life, extending our vision far beyond the usual therapeutic frame. The Money report exemplifies the way in which small sample reports can provide a powerful approach to making the detailed comparisons needed to clarify multidetermined processes.
Strauss
J S
JS
Yale University School of Medicine.
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D002908:Chronic Disease; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D010817:Physician-Patient Relations; D011613:Psychotherapy / Q000379:methods*; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000628:therapy*; D012565:Schizophrenic Psychology