Abstract:

Based on the related existing research on group psychology, this study presents a comprehensive psychological mechanism model of a harmonious doctor-patient relationship by integrating the structural characterization and dynamic construction process of a doctor-patient relationship. It advocates that, (1) the structure of a harmonious doctor-patient relationship could be regarded as the basic observation index of medical satisfaction, intergroup trust between doctors and patients, and compliance with medical programs, and (2) the dynamic construction process of a harmonious doctor-patient relationship could include the intergroup level doctor-patient relationship that existed before medical treatment and the instant interpersonal level doctor-patient relationship that forms during the process of doctor-patient interaction. These two progressive components interact and integrate into each other gradually. Among them, the construction of the intergroup level harmonious doctor-patient relationship is mainly influenced by the spread of the doctor-patient public opinion, trust in the medical system, and intergroup relationship factors such as intergroup cognitive biases and group identifications. Meanwhile, the interpersonal trust level and communication mode between the doctors and patients mainly influence the construction of an interpersonal level doctor-patient relationship. Based on such theoretical models and empirical research, the strategy of promoting a harmonious doctor-patient relationship is presented. This research has important theoretical significance and practical value in the development and promotion of a harmonious doctor-patient relationship.

Key words: harmonious doctor-patient relationship, intergroup level doctor-patient relationship, interpersonal level doctor-patient relationship, doctor-patient trust, doctor-patient communication