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Practice Commentary
Jane T. Carswell, MD
Arch Fam Med. 1992;1(1):47.
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| Since this article does not have an abstract, we have provided the first 150 words of the full text PDF and any section headings. |
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Many abused women do not meet the characteristics of the "ideal patient." They frequently miss appointments, do not fill prescriptions, and are often drab in appearance and personality. Frequently, they request something for their "nerves" or present with vague multisystem complaints. These traits are often encouraged by the abuser who may be more attractive and vocal and may be quite solicitous.
Abused spouses are much like alcoholics and may not accept our diagnosis and plan of treatment when first offered. Some hold religious views that marriage is for life, no matter what. However, rather than be irritated by their presentation or apparent recalcitrance, these patients need identification and help. I personally say something like this:
Life does not have to be like this, and there is help. No matter what you said, did, or did not do, you do not deserve physical abuse. This is not something that you should be ashamed of and
. . . [Full Text PDF of this Article]
Author Affiliations
Lenoir, NC
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