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Published on: February 16, 2011
Whole mind and shared mind in clinical decision-making.
1Departments of Family Medicine, Psychiatry, Oncology and Nursing and the Center for Communication and Disparities Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA. ronald_epstein@urmc.rochester.edu
Clinical decisions involve both individual ("whole mind") and shared ("shared mind") cognitive processes. Understanding these dynamics can enhance patient autonomy and lead to wiser choices in chronic illness care.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Science
- Clinical Psychology
- Medical Ethics
Background:
- Clinical decision-making is complex, involving analytic and intuitive thought.
- Social interactions influence how individuals process information and make choices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the theory, research, and ethics of "whole mind" and "shared mind" in clinical practice.
- To explore their application in managing chronic and serious illnesses.
Main Methods:
- Selective critical review of decision-making theories.
- Integration of cognitive neuroscience, communication research, and ethics.
Main Results:
- "Whole mind" encompasses analytic thought, affect, and intuition.
- "Shared mind" involves the merging of cognitive and affective schemas between individuals.
- Social relationships aid in processing complex information.
Conclusions:
- Medical practice should integrate analytic and non-analytic cognitive processes.
- Decision-making arises from individual and interactive perspectives.
- Social interactions can enhance both individual and relational autonomy.
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