Break Quote by Arthur Conan Doyle
“There are one or two elementary rules to be observed in the way of handling patients," he remarked, seating himself on the table and swinging his legs. "The most obvious is that you must never let them see that you want them. It should be pure condescension on your part seeing them at all; and the more difficulties you throw in the way of it, the more they think of it. Break your patients in early, and keep them well to heel.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Hound of the Baskervilles, 1902
A doctor should maintain professional distance, using subtle control to manage patients without revealing personal desire.
In simple terms: Keep distance, control subtly.
Key Takeaway
Maintain professional detachment.
Themes
professionalism
control
patient care
Mood
detached
strategic
Type
advice
clinical
When to use this quote
- medical practice
- therapy sessions
- clinical training
- patient interviews
Key Concepts
psychology
ethics
authority
Questions to Reflect On
- How does distance affect patient trust?
- When is overt empathy more effective?
A Different Perspective
Overly manipulative distance can damage trust.
