The Psychology of the Physically Ill Patient

A Clinician’s Guide

The intent of this book is to examine the psychological and social worlds of physically ill patients-an area that particularly needs attention today, since the great advances in medical science have caused many to minimize pa­ tients' emotional concerns. However, the pendulum has begun to swing back to the interrelationship of body and mind. Quality of life is again becoming a critical consideration in treatment. In writing the book I have drawn upon my own clinical experiences as a psychologist working with the physically ill. I have also drawn upon studies of the psychological factors in medical illness, and I was pleased to find a growing body of research. Although the book is primarily directed to psy­ chotherapists, it will benefit anyone involved in the care of those with medical problems, such as family and friends, as well as medical professionals. vii Acknowledgments I would particularly like to thank Redjeb Jordania for his endless patience, support, and encouragement from the very beginning of this project, and for his valuable suggestions and editorial comments along the way.