[The anamnestic interview focusing on the psychological problems of patients]

The article extends the usual view concerning selection and scope of anamnestic data. Attention is drawn to some generally valid psychological factors which are used in anamnestically oriented interviews and which are important also for the later creation of the doctor-patient relationship. The anamnestic interview is important for inducing confidence in the doctor and for the patient's motivation for further cooperation during therapy. The author mentions some actual examples of questions whereby he emphasizes the importance of so-called open questions. The doctor should, however, not restrict himself to putting questions but should provide also a certain space for the patient's spontaneous expression. He should also provide some information to the patient. Based on the anamnestic interview focused on psychological problems the doctor should obtain a more concrete idea on the patient's life not only from a purely factographic aspect but also from the aspect how the patient experienced individual events. The anamnestically oriented interview should have a calming effect on the patient, it should be the basis for the development of confidence in the doctor and a certain degree of self-respect.