DOCTOR-PATIENT INTERACTION: A ROLE PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Good health is a prerequisite for proper functioning of the human body at individual and society levels. Sound in health, one can plan and execute activities proper to him or her. Health is basically the ability to function properly. Parsons (1975) concept of the sick role is a useful sociological approach to illness because it views the patient physician relationship within a framework of social roles, attitudes, and activities that both parties bring to the situation. This paper examines the doctor-patient interaction from purely socio-psychological view point using the role perspective as a point of reference.


(Global J Med Sci: 2002 1(1): 69-73)