As therapy proceeded, she developed an intense fondness for the therapist, based largely on the fact that he was the first man who had spent time with her on a regular basis. At this point, instead of helping her learn how to attract suitable dates, the therapist suggested that sex with him would help her become more comfortable with men. She consented, hoping that marriage to the therapist would result. Her eventual disillusionment was a shattering experience that led to suicide. Nearly all psychiatrists believe that sexual contact with a patient is inappropriate and usually harmful.
Several states have laws forbidding such contact.
In some states it is a criminal offense, while in others it is considered malpractice and can lead to a loss of license. Testimony during the trial indicated that they had begun dating after almost two years of treatment. The patient said that although she was extremely happy during the beginning of their affair, she became severely depressed when it ended. The Principles of Medical Ethics with Annotations Especially Applicable to Psychiatry. American Psychiatric Association, 1993.