The Dying Patient and the Double-Bind Hypothesis

Abstract

The double-bind hypothesis is applied to the communication patterns surrounding the dying patient. Significant others emit incongruent verbal and nonverbal messages as they attempt to conceal the patient's impending death. Most attempts to conceal are misguided and futile not only because most dying patients suspect and/or want to know the truth, but also because the management of a host of verbal and nonverbal cues is virtually impossible. The potential for psychologically destructive social interactions is documented by drawing parallels with the schizophrenogenic double bind situation. Staff efforts should go into revealing rather than concealing the truth.