When the System is the Problem, Don't Blame the Patient: Problems Inherent in the Interdisciplinary Inpatient Team

Abstract

Organizational theory used in conjunction with the transference/countertransference paradigm enables members of the interdisciplinary team to look at treatment problems from two perspectives and to intervene at the appropriate level. Common problems of the team are poorly defined accountability, a lack of leadership, communication breakdowns, and boundary violations. Suggested interventions are education of team members about organizational theory, open discussion of contentious issues, and reinforcement of boundaries. The dynamics of the team are important and a team can benefit from self-examination through organizational theory.