Using the placebo response in clinical practice
Michael E Hyland
DOI: https://doi.org/10.7861/clinmedicine.3-4-347
Clin Med July 2003 Michael E Hyland
University of Plymouth
PhD CPsycholAbstract
This paper reviews the psychological mechanisms that lead to placebo responses and the physiological basis for reduction in symptoms. Some psychological mechanisms (expectancy, conditioning) lead to symptom reduction but are unlikely to reduce underlying pathology. Other mechanisms (therapeutic relationship, empowerment) may additionally reduce later pathology. The nature, size and duration of the placebo response depends on the placebo inducing context. In clinical practice, the placebo response creates an adjunctive response to that of active treatment. It is a useful, but fickle, boon as it is difficult to predict when it will occur.
- © 2003 Royal College of Physicians
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Using the placebo response in clinical practice
Michael E Hyland
Clinical Medicine Jul 2003, 3 (4) 347-350; DOI: 10.7861/clinmedicine.3-4-347
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