Interpersonal Communication Patterns Between Rehabilitation Instructors and Psychiatric Patients at Dr. Amino Gondohutomo Regional Mental Hospital

This study examines interpersonal communication patterns between rehabilitation instructors and psychiatric patients at Dr. Amino Gondohutomo Regional Mental Hospital, Semarang, Indonesia. A descriptive qualitative design involved five purposively selected instructors responsible for agriculture, occupational therapy, sandal-making, reading and painting, and sewing and bead-stringing. Data were obtained through in-depth interviews, field observations, and rehabilitation documentation, then analyzed using data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing, supported by source and methodological triangulation. Findings identified adaptive verbal and nonverbal communication tailored to rehabilitation activities and patients’ immediate needs. Instructors employed orientation, explicit task directions, persuasive encouragement, small rewards, and supportive reassurance. Gestures and facial expressions conveyed patients’ requests and emotional reactions. A rehabilitation observation involving 29 patients documented introductory interactions before activity assignments. Communication barriers included medication-related drowsiness, reduced attention, disappointment when cigarette requests conflicted with hospital rules, and demands on instructors’ emotional self-regulation. Reassuring explanations were accompanied by calmer observed body language, but long-term psychological or clinical outcomes were not measured. The study concludes that clear, responsive, and empathetic communication supports interaction and participation in structured rehabilitation activities; findings remain limited to instructors' reported and observed experiences. Further research should incorporate patients’ perspectives and evaluate communication practices across different phases of recovery.