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Theoretical work and discussion in the group concerning the neglect syndrome continued. The group agreed on several tests to estimate the extent of the neglect. In the long run funding should be raised for a research project. In order to gather data for the project design, the group voted for taking patients into psychotherapy. Three aspects in the treatment of neglect patients seem to be of importance for gaining a more complex view of the neglect syndrome: subjectivity, life history, building of relationships.
Based on the fact that a brain lesion followed by a major impairment is a threat to the whole personality, these aspects seem to be of special relevance. We assumed that the change in the subjective view the patient has of himself would result in certain psychic operations. How are these rooted and influenced by his subjective history, and to what extent are they defense or coping mechanisms? And finally, how will his mode of building relationships alter or differ from the way it used to be? This makes clear why direct contact with relatives and friends of the patient is also an issue in treating this kind of patient.
During 2001, group members had increased contact with hospitals and university institutions. This led to cooperation in the search for neglect patients suitable for psychoanalytically oriented psychotherapy.
Professor Leuzinger-Bohleber has had three interviews with a patient who showed a major neglect syndrome. Due to the specific interaction with this patient's wife and the resulting psychody namic conflicts, psychotherapy could not be established. So far, two members of the group (Drs. Rothe and Roeckerath) have started one session per week with neglect patients. Both patients show a hemiplegia, hemianopsia, and a left side neglect. A fourth patient has just been seen by Dr. Kennel, but it is not yet certain that psychotherapy will follow.
I will give a short summary of the anamneses and some aspects of the therapeutic process of the two patient