CBS News covered the story about Dr. Wayne S. Fenton, who appears to have been murdered by a patient he was seeing in his private practice. Dr. Fenton was an extremely important person in developing treatments for people with schizophrenia, and was associate director of the National Institute of Mental Health.
“He was without question one of the nation’s experts in schizophrenia,” said Thomas R. Insel, director of the National Institute of Mental Health.
Insel said Fenton was leading a research effort to help make it possible for people with severe psychiatric disease to function in the community.”
The tragic event highlights how dangerous beling involved in a helping profession can be. I was unable to locate any reliable statistics, but assaults against mental health professionals by clients is a concern that is addressed in many training programs. Unfortunately there is not a simple solution since those prone to violence are often those in the most need.
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3 Comments to
“Prominent Psychiatrist Killed”
This is a very, very sad development. Dr. Fenton’s work is unequalled in this area and his involvement and efforts will be deeply missed.
My condolences go out to his colleagues and family.
Though am not a psy nor pdocs and despite of doubts or fear I had towards them of what I’ve gone through in the past but Its really sad to see someone whom have the passion in helping people whom have mental health problem killed by his’ own patient. It’s really brave of Dr. Fenton and those whom really dedicate their life in these field. And I cant deny that. Coz I been thru that as well I understand how it is like helping someone whom I dont know whom I felt He needs help financially and mentally and in the hospital as well……… am very sure now he has a wonderful fellowship with GOD in Heaven.
While sitting in my psychiatrist’s waiting room, I always imagined the possibility of someone more disturbed than myself walking through the door. I constantly worried about the doctor’s safety.
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Last reviewed: By John M. Grohol, Psy.D. on 5 Sep 2006
