Doctors want to help their patients. Patients want their doctors to help. But when conflicts arise and lead to an impasse over issues as simple as prescribing antibiotics for a cold or as complicated as end-of-life care physicians can be left feeling frustrated and helpless. As their relationship deteriorates, both doctor and patient feel misunderstood and cut-off. Inspired by the authors" experience with a twelve-year-old girl who struggled to take life-saving medication and based on principals and proven techniques from the field of family therapy, the authors present a unique approach to the problem of doctor patient conflict. This practical guide focuses on how changes in a physician"s thinking can improve challenging interactions. Breaking the Cycle features: A wealth of real-life experiences and case studies that show how impasses arise and how best to respond. A systematic approach that helps readers overcome impasses by building relationships with their patients, not withdrawing from them. The knowledge, insights, and experience of an internist, health psychologist, and family therapist. Breaking the Cycle explains how physicians can understand, approach, and resolve doctor patient conflict in a way that breaks down barriers and builds stronger, more gratifying relationships.