The Learning Alliance and its Relation to Psychiatric Teaching

Abstract

The concept of the learning alliance is useful in understanding the teaching-learning process in general and the doctor-patient relationship specifically. The alliance is that relationship between student and teacher characterized by mutual respect and joint dedication to a task of learning. It enables the student to maximize his mastery of a new and difficult experience. This paper outlines the stresses on the alliance throughout the teaching process, and illustrates these in examples of psychiatric teaching.

Aspects of the learning alliance as encountered in the teaching of psychiatry have equal relevance to the teaching of medical students, practicing physicians, and other clinical workers.

Similarities and differences are explored in both the teaching and the therapeutic models of helping relationships.

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