The Second-in-Command Syndrome
John A. Talbott M.D.1 and
Vivian H. Godbey A.B.2
1 Comprehensive Clinical Service Payne-Whitney Psychiatric Clinic New York, New York; 160 West 94th Street, New York, New York 10025
2 Columbia University School of Public Health New York, New York; Meyer-Manhattan Psychiatric Hospital in New York City
Individuals who are second in command in organizations have common problems that result from their role, as illustrated in a hypothetical example of the relationship of a first-in-command and second-in-command in establishing a day hospital. The authors believe that firsts and seconds can function most effectively by accepting inevitabilities—for instance, that competition exists and that perfect communication is impossible—and recognizing that the relationship has great potential for destructiveness as well as many advantages. They discuss the needs to define boundaries on the basis of skills and personality variables and to respect individual identity.
