Severe behavioural disturbance in families of patients with prolonged coma

Abstract

This paper describes the psychological dynamics among family members of patients with prolonged coma. We discuss the conflicts these families meet and how they affect their interpersonal relationships. Special focus is placed on overt and covert aggression towards the attending staff, an issue that has not received much attention. The unconscious motives underlying these overt aggressive behaviours are described, with an emphasis on how projective mechanisms come into play. We suggest a partial solution to be implemented in units treating these kinds of patients.