Shay Sheridan - Diary

TO: RE: DATE:

Paul Schuman, PhD. Patient Mr. W. 13 July 2000 - 1:00pm

Paul - as I mentioned, here are some notes on Patient Mr. W. I could certainly use some advice!

Mr. W. arrived in an agitated state - was waiting for me outside door this am and was advised to return when I had an opening at 12:15. Have seen him on several occasions - seems to have difficulty making and keeping regular appointments, but his case is so provocative, I find myself unable to refuse.

Mr. W. is a Caucasian male who appears to be mid-thirties (says he does not know his exact date or year of birth!) -who despite being highly functional and charming suffers the delusion of being greatly influenced by phases of the moon. While this delusion is not uncommon in some cultures (see monograph by C.D. Furst - “The Origins of Lunar Obsession” Yale, 1959) Mr. W. does not seem to have this particular cultural background. He evidently experienced some kind of dysfunction as a child resulting in binge eating and other eating disorders I am still trying to unravel, and has in the past made references to feeling the urge to bite or even consume (!) his fiancee in some kind of mating frenzy - his story is confusing here. I have advised him that such thoughts are self-indulgent. In summation, claims to possess characteristics of some type of predatory animal, although his introspection and constant self-analysis evince more of a tendency towards obsessive-compulsive disorder. My remaining impassive during his acting out has resulted in a calming effect on Mr. W. who, despite such theatrical outbursts, does seem to want to participate in his treatment and is extremely suggestible and cooperative.

Today’s visit was perplexing, as Mr. W. wished to discuss his fiancee, stating that it is she who is in need of treatment, suffering vivid dreams and occasional blackouts accompanied by violence directed at Mr. W. The patient’s agitation was compounded by the approach of the full moon tomorrow night - he says he fears he will do harm to his fiancee (who is pregnant) if she were to attack him. I am puzzled - he does not seem to be the victim of domestic violence, and despite his fears about the full moon, I doubt if he is dangerous to himself or others.

I suggested that if, in fact, his fiancee, Miss L., is in need of therapy, she should call to set up an appointment, but as you know, I do not counsel couples, and therefore thought you might be interested in a referral should she call. In the meantime, I am in a quandary about Mr. W.’s transference of symptoms to his fiancee, and your input would be most welcome.

My best to Olivia and the children.
Marian