Mutiny on the balint: balancing resident developmental needs with the balint process

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Psychiatry
• Qualitative Research

Background:

• Residency programs utilize Balint groups for reflective practice.
• Existing Balint group formats show variability nationwide.
• Residents in one program initially reported dissatisfaction despite understanding the purpose.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a resident Balint group experience.
• To investigate resident dissatisfaction with Balint group format.
• To evaluate the effect of modifying the Balint group process.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative needs assessment via survey and focus group.
• Immersion-crystallization method applied throughout.
• Field notes and leader reflections captured group process.

Main Results:

• Initial sessions focused on resident-requested professional development topics.
• Residents later transitioned to a process resembling traditional Balint groups.
• Discussion of patient perspectives remained infrequent.

Conclusions:

• Modifying Balint group structure may be necessary for certain learner groups.
• Adaptations can lead to a more meaningful Balint experience.
• Enhancing reflective practice in residency requires flexible approaches.