Practitioner and Patient Interpersonal Skills: An Evaluation of Psychological Research

Effective communication is crucial in healthcare, underpinning successful diagnoses, treatment adherence and patient satisfaction. This essay evaluates psychological research on practitioner and patient interpersonal skills, focusing on verbal and nonverbal communication, while considering the generalisability of findings and other relevant evaluative points.

Nonverbal Communication

McKinstry and Wang (1993) investigated the impact of doctor's attire on patient perceptions. They found that patients preferred doctors dressed formally or in a doctor's coat. This preference was strongest among older patients and those in higher social classes. While this study provides valuable insight into patient preferences, its generalisability is limited. The sample consisted of 475 patients from a single region in Scotland (Lothian) which might not represent patient diversity across cultures or even other areas of the UK. Additionally, the study was conducted in the early 1990s, potentially impacting its temporal validity as societal views on attire have evolved.

Another aspect of nonverbal communication explored in research is doctor's facial expressions. Studies using videotaped consultations have shown that doctors who display more warmth and empathy through their facial expressions are perceived as more approachable and understanding (Ambady et al., 2002). These findings have practical applications in medical training, emphasizing the importance of nonverbal cues in building rapport with patients.

Verbal Communication

McKinlay (1975) studied how doctors explain medical terminology to patients. Her research revealed that doctors often overestimate patients' understanding of medical jargon. This highlights the need for clear and accessible communication. However, McKinlay’s study is limited by its small sample size and specific demographic focus – all female patients of a single socioeconomic class from one area (Aberdeen, Scotland).

Ley (1988) investigated patient recall of medical information. He found that patients remember and understand information better when doctors use clear, concise language, avoid jargon, and provide information in a structured manner. These findings have clear practical implications for doctor-patient communication. By adopting the recommended communication strategies, practitioners can improve patient understanding and adherence to treatment plans.

Generalisability and Other Evaluation Points

As highlighted in the examples above, generalisability is a significant concern in many studies. Factors like sample size, geographical location, cultural context, and temporal validity can all limit the extent to which research findings can be applied universally. Furthermore, many studies rely on self-reported data from patients, which may be influenced by social desirability bias.

Another important consideration is the use of qualitative versus quantitative data. While quantitative studies like McKinstry and Wang provide valuable statistical insights, qualitative research like McKinlay's offers richer, more nuanced understanding of patient experiences and perspectives.

Conclusion

Research has provided valuable insights into practitioner and patient interpersonal skills. Findings highlight the importance of both verbal and nonverbal communication in shaping patient experiences and outcomes. While generalisability remains a challenge due to methodological limitations, the practical applications of this research are undeniable. By incorporating findings on clear communication, empathy, and patient-centered approaches, medical professionals can foster stronger doctor-patient relationships, ultimately leading to improved healthcare outcomes.