The authors of this controversial volume have collected case studies and observational accounts of caregivers for over 15 years. Iatrogenic harm is a serious and widespread problem that many have been reluctant to speak out about for fear of being blacklisted by their colleagues. In writing this book the authors hope to establish guidelines that will help caregivers to recognize and deal with potentially harmful behavior thereby improving the standards of care for all patients.

Gerald Caplan (Author) , Ruth B. Caplan (Author)

Introduction. An Overview of Some Causative Factors. Some Typical Features of Iatrogenically Damaging Behavior. Professionals' Stereotypes, Premature Closure, and a Pre-planned Outcome. Adoption, Secrecy, and the Hidden Agenda. A Loss of Professional Objectivity. Kafka's World. The Difficulties of Preventing Iatrogenic Damage. Some Suggested Solutions. Adapting Techniques of Mental Health Consultation to Influence Unwelcoming Agencies. Involvement of Judges. Our Response to Some Critics. Helping the Victims of Iatrogenic Damage. Bibliography. Index.