What Is ‘Good Patient’ Syndrome & How Could It Be Harmful To Black Patients

Nobody likes to be called “difficult,” so it’s simpler to comply when you’re continually being treated. Long-term chronic disease threatens our mental health, overexposes us to medical procedures, and drains our time and energy. Sometimes, these pressures lead to “good patient syndrome,” when people behave to please physicians for better treatment. This includes never asking questions or downplaying their struggles to avoid being considered “difficult.” Trauma explains this bizarre long-term treatment strategy. Still, avoiding revealing vital medical information to make their doctor’s day easier makes people sicker. What Is Good Patient Syndrome? Although often linked with terminally sick patients, it may also occur in chronically unwell and disabled individuals. Good patient syndrome arises when a patient consciously or subconsciously behaves and acts like a ‘good patient.’ Dr. Kaley Roosen, a licensed clinical and health psychologist in Toronto, Canada, believes that patients who listen and respect their doctor are less complex and submit to their authority for treatment. She says, “This may include being agreeable, friendly, soft spoken, deferential to doctor’s orders and suggestions, grateful, and not causing too much of a fuss or issue.” RELATED: 9 Doctor’s Office Mistakes You’re Making What Does Good Patient Syndrome Feel Like? There is...