Performance, emotion work, and transition: challenging experiences of complementary therapy student practitioners...

Area of Science:

• Complementary and Alternative Medicine
• Medical Education
• Sociology of Professions

Background:

• Limited research exists on the clinical experiences and emotion work of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practitioners and students.
• Understanding the transition into clinical practice is crucial for medical education and professional development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the challenges undergraduate CAM practitioners in training face during their initial patient consultations.
• To explore the emotion work and coping strategies employed by these students.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative approach using semistructured interviews with 9 undergraduate CAM practitioners in training.
• Analysis employed a constant comparison method within a dramaturgical (heuristic) framework.

Main Results:

• Students experienced challenges related to performing in a public clinical arena, managing impressions, and role conflict (student vs. practitioner).
• Preliminary consultations were viewed as a rite of passage impacting professional identity.
• Anticipatory anxiety was a common challenge during observed patient consultations.

Conclusions:

• Peer group sharing and feedback were identified as the most effective coping strategies for students navigating clinical challenges.
• Addressing the unique demands of early clinical practice is essential for successful professional socialization in CAM fields.