Expectation of death: case reports with implications for medical and psychiatric care

4 cases are reported in which fatal outcome is attributed to expectation of death. They illustrate the role of the individual and the interaction of the individual and the family. These cases support the contention that the expectation of death and the probability of lethal outcome are high under conditions of crisis, old age, illness, and sin. 2 cases exemplify techniques by which primary caregivers may prevent premature death in persons in which expectation is operative. Awareness of the process will facilitate appropriate diagnostic evaluation which can lead to effective management.