Exploring mental health students' perceptions of role models

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Qualitative Research
• Healthcare Professional Development

Background:

• Existing literature on role models lacks student perspectives in mental health nursing.
• Understanding student expectations of role models is crucial for effective mentorship.
• Third-year mental health nursing students' experiences offer unique insights into role modeling.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the phenomenon of role models from the perspective of third-year mental health nursing students.
• To identify desired attributes and expectations students have of significant role models.
• To deepen the understanding of role model concepts within mental health nurse education.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study employing phenomenological research methods.
• Data collection focused on the lived experiences of third-year mental health nursing students.
• Research question: 'From the viewpoint of a third-year student undertaking mental health nurse education, what is the phenomenon referred to as role model?'

Main Results:

• Identified specific positive attributes that third-year students associate with effective role models.
• Revealed student-defined criteria for what constitutes a significant role model in their nursing education.
• Highlighted the gap between existing role model literature and student-perceived needs.

Conclusions:

• The study provides valuable insights into student expectations of role models in mental health nursing.
• Findings can inform educators and institutions on fostering supportive and effective role modeling environments.
• Emphasizes the importance of aligning mentorship practices with student-identified needs in nursing education.