[Recognition and dependency. When patients and health personnel meet]

The article is based on a research project on first encounters in physiotherapy practice, using video recordings and interviews. A single encounter is described and analysed in detail: How conditions for co-operation evolve during the course of the encounter is analysed by focusing on dialogue and bodily interaction. The therapist directs her attention to the patient's immediate trauma ("whiplash"). The analysis shows that she expresses interest and recognition through her bodily actions and clinical performance, while her words and the focus of her examination have the effect of curbing the patient's participation. A giver-receiver relationship is established, where the therapist and patient reinforce each other in an active-passive division of roles. Recognition and dependency are discussed in the context of asymmetric relationships, role distribution and professional identity.