The Arab nurse and the jewish psychotic patient in the closed psychiatric ward

The ongoing Israeli-Arab conflict has its impact on the mental health system. This issue is investigated from the point of view of the interactional process in the locked unit mainly between the Arab nurse and the Jewish psychotic patient. The unique experience of being treated by the formal enemy during one of the most vulnerable periods seems to be sometimes even therapeutic for the patient. Aspects concerning psychopathology, psychodynamics and social interaction are evaluated through observation and interviews with patients and staff members. Ways of dealing with the complicated issues are discussed.