ABSTRACT
The complexity of personality theories is minimal compared to the differences between the individuals they are designed to describe. The practical application of personality theory to health care problems is generally neither as theoretically complicated as the analytic approaches nor as straightforward and brief as learning theory approaches would boast. An eclectic approach "involves the selective application of basic science methods using the most valid current knowledge available for specific clinical situations according to indications and contraindications. An appreciation of individual differences among patients and between all others and ourselves, provides a rich, stimulating, and effective experience in the promotion of health and the treatment of illness. Close attention to the individual personality will be amply rewarded by positive individual behaviors and successful medical outcomes in the health care setting. The information supplied far yields some idea of the patient's personality and of certain possible avenues of approach.
