It may not be an every day occurrence when a doctor welcomes a new patient and is chatting about their lifestyle when drinking blood becomes the topic. But, it is an occurrence nonetheless, claims Dr. Williams from Idaho State University. In a new study published in the journal Critical Social Work, Dr. Williams and co-author Emily Prior from the Center for Positive Sexuality reflect on the relationship between these unique patients and their doctors.
Dr. Williams said there is a vision of what society thinks of when they hear the word “vampire.” Consider movies like Twilight or hit shows like True Blood, but that is not the reality states the associate professor.
In the study, Dr. Williams explains that patients that self-identify as vampire share they have specific “energy” needs that everyday people would not understand. When these individuals approach their doctors for a medical issues or a counselor to address a personal concern, they are hesitant in sharing their complete identity. Dr. Williams and Prior encourage medical professionals to think outside of the box and remove the veil of judgement.
The study notes reflect while this specific study may focus on those who identify as vampires, it encompasses additional alternative lifestyles like those who engage in bondage/discipline, dominance/submission, and sadomasochism (BDSM) activities, furries and more. The researchers want doctors to approach their patients without using their lifestyle as part of a “cure” to a diagnosis, so to speak.
Patients living alternate lifestyles work regular jobs, and involve themselves in everyday “normal” activities, explains the researchers, and should not be criticized or judged.
Much too often, shows the study, patients will approach their doctors to discuss a concern and if they admit to their lifestyle, the doctor refuses to accept it as part of who they are and focus on the concern. Rather, doctors are taking the lifestyle as the core of the issue and wanting the individual to oppress that side of their life.
Practicing vampires believe in “subtle energy” or what mainstream may call a “feeding.” This may include blood from a “willing donor” to supplement the person’s overall well-being. Many others in the lifestyle may feed off “psychic or pranic energy,” but those in the vampire community want doctors to know they are practicing safe methods and feeding responsibly. Those who identify as vampires do not want critical opinions from their health providers or a psychopathological diagnosis.
They want to be treated for the issue they specifically bring up while professionals in the medical field respect their self-identity, and address the concern listed without using their lifestyle as reason for the issue.
For more information click here to read the study.
Several years ago Discovery featured a documentary on real life vampires.
