The disease-subject as a subject of literature
2007
Understanding the Disease-Subject in Literature and Medicine
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Kottow Andrea R, Kottow Michael H
Hypothesis
How does the concept of the disease-subject alter the understanding of patient narratives in medical practice?
Conclusion
Literature can help physicians better understand the complex narratives of patients who are experiencing existential disruptions due to disease.
Supporting Evidence
- Literature can depict how major diseases disrupt a person's life and identity.
- Understanding the narratives of disease-subjects can improve the physician-patient relationship.
- Patients often need to create new life stories after experiencing significant health changes.
Takeaway
When people get really sick, they have to change how they see themselves and their lives, and stories can help doctors understand this better.
Limitations
The study may not account for all types of diseases or individual patient experiences.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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