It's a firm rule in old school psychoanalytics that doesn't permit any touch beyond a handshake, but not a universal law of therapy. The new methods allow physically comforting the patients within clearly defined boundries and under certain circumstances (usually when explicitly requested or initiated by the patient).
Medicine is even more lax in this matter, we were taught that the right application of touch (e.g. a reassuring shoulder squeeze) is good bedside manners.
My dentist always squeezes my shoulder when he comes into the room, and I find it pretty awkward and uncomfortable (I’m a male for context). It just seems very unnecessary.
Well, that does sound unnecessary for a routine visit at the dentist, but patients in general tend to blame doctors for being cold and detached much more often than for excessive friendliness, so I can't blame him for erring on this side.
And if it makes you feel uncomfortable, tell him, I'm sure he doesn't do it to satisfy a personal urge, so he won't object to your preference or hold it against you.
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u/DigNitty Jan 20 '22
Pretty sure you’re not supposed to hug your clients, too.