DIFFICULT PARENTS - FROM ADVERSARIES TO PARTNERS

The pediatrician's job becomes frustrating when it is necessary to dea l with difficult parents. Some physicians may not have the training or inclination to engage such parents in a therapeutic partnership. This paper discusses tools available to physicians which will help them de velop an effective partnership that includes uncovering the hidden mea ning behind a child's illness; understanding the reciprocal nature of partnerships; and the importance of determining each party's goals, ro les, and expectations. Negotiating these steps enables physicians to d evelop a productive relationship with difficult parents of sick childr en. This strategy can facilitate the child's medical care and improve the parents' and physician's satisfaction with the services rendered. This paper also discusses steps to take when these attempts are not su fficient to handle the situation.