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Professional confidence: a concept analysis
Kathlyn Holland1, Lyn Middleton, Leana Uys
1University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa. hollandk@ukzn.ac.za
Introduction:
Professional confidence is a concept that is frequently used and or implied in occupational therapy literature, but often without specifying its meaning.
Method:
Rodgers's Model of Concept Analysis was used to analyse the term "professional confidence". Published research obtained from a federated search in four health sciences databases was used to inform the concept analysis.
Results:
The definitions, attributes, antecedents, and consequences of professional confidence as evidenced in the literature are discussed. Surrogate terms and related concepts are identified, and a model case of the concept provided. Based on the analysis, professional confidence can be described as a dynamic, maturing personal belief held by a professional or student. This includes an understanding of and a belief in the role, scope of practice, and significance of the profession, and is based on their capacity to competently fulfil these expectations, fostered through a process of affirming experiences.
Discussion:
Developing and fostering professional confidence should be nurtured and valued to the same extent as professional competence, as the former underpins the latter, and both are linked to professional identity.
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