This course is designed to provide knowledge of human behavior important to the treatment of patients and their families. While scientific knowledge of disease and its treatment are necessary for medical care, understanding the broader context of the patient as a person who suffers is integral to being an effective physician. Physicians who have an understanding of the aging and dying process can then help patients and their families deal with medical realities. Medical staff who have an awareness of the dynamics of addictions and domestic violence can hone their intuition as to what might assist the individual and the individual's spouse, children and elderly dependents. In addition, understanding the patient's sexuality gives a more complete medical understanding of the individual. Physicians and medical students should be aware of their own values, views and biases in the delivery of medical care. Practicing medicine in a professional and ethical manner, and collaborating effectively with patients and colleagues, is a lifelong endeavor and an ongoing challenge. These skills are enshrined in professional codes of conduct, and now routinely assessed by licensing boards and educational institutions.