background More and more criticism is being levelled at the traditional cornerstones of psychiatric treatment such as medication, diagnostics and the specific effectiveness of treatment models. On the other hand, however, increasing attention is being given to other ’non-specific’ factors such as the quality of the working alliance, the value of feedback and the personality and character of the therapist. In addition, there is an ever-increasing demand on the part of the public who want a more prominent role in the treatment process for relatives and family members.
aim To respond to these societal developments by delineating a new and more comprehensive role for the psychiatrist.
method The authors analyse how the need for new roles is connected with the fact that psychiatrists and the general public have different conceptual frameworks and tend to use different conversational styles and vocabulary.
results According to the authors, the psychiatrist should be able to fulfill several roles in the treatment process. The traditional psychiatric ‘jargon’ is inadequate for expressing the specific value of the differing roles and conceptual frameworks of psychiatrists and members of the public.
conclusion When opting for a specific role and type of language, the psychiatrist should be guided by what is most likely to lead to fruitful cooperation with the patient and his or her relatives. In discussing treatment plans with the patient the psychiatrist must learn to use more comprehensive and flexible language.