ABSTRACT
This chapter describes Ann Morgan's experience of meeting the outspoken and insightful Donald Winnicott in 1951. It outlines why he studied medicine and how he became a unique doctor in the way he practised and thought. The chapter discusses his new way of thinking about his patients that were also influenced by the social conditions of pre- and post-World War Two London. It explores Winnicott's relationship with paediatrics and with psychoanalysis and his ideas about bringing the two together, and briefly focuses on his thoughts about the influence of the mind on the body. The chapter suggests that Winnicott's ideas are relevant and should be revived in our market-driven medical world where simple history taking, examination, observation, and thoughtful care are often forgotten. Winnicott's transformative work occurred in the "decade 1928-1938 was perhaps the most vital and creative period of research in the British Society".
