A novel clinical framework: The use of dispositions in clinical practice. A person centred approach. Issue 5 (21st February 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Low, Matthew
• Is Part Of: Journal of evaluation in clinical practice. Volume 23:Issue 5(2017)
• Page Start: 1062
• Page End: 1070
• Publication Date: 2017-02-21
• Subjects: causation -- clinical practice -- clinical reasoning -- dispositions -- philosophy -- physiotherapy; Clinical medicine -- Periodicals; 616.005
• DOI: 10.1111/jep.12713
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1356-1294

Abstract

Abstract: This paper explores a novel clinical framework that is underpinned by a specific philosophical perspective of causation and its utility in clinical practice. A dispositional theory of causation may overcome challenges that clinicians face in complex clinical presentations including those that are medically unexplained. Dispositionalism identifies causes not as regular events necessitating an effect but rather phenomena, which are highly complex, context‐sensitive, and which tend toward an effect. Diagnostic uncertainty and causal explanation are significant challenges in terms of clinical reasoning, communication, and the overall therapeutic outcome. This novel framework aims to facilitate improved collaborative clinical reasoning, enhanced patient‐practitioner interaction, and supported treatment planning. The paper uses a real case study of a patient1 with nonspecific spinal pain to demonstrate the clinical framework as used in clinical practice.