Act Scholarly! Embrace your inner behavioral scientist

Area of Science:

• Behavioral Science
• Family Medicine
• Medical Education

Background:

• Behavioral science faculty have shaped family medicine for 50 years.
• Influence spans from core philosophy (biopsychosocial) to integrated care teams.
• Current family medicine practice is built on scholarly collaboration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To encourage behavioral science professionals to engage in scholarship within Family Medicine.
• To define scholarship broadly, encompassing knowledge sharing and professional development.
• To foster continued innovation and improvement in the field.

Main Methods:

• Understanding scholarship beyond traditional research.
• Building supportive networks (mentors, collaborators).
• Selecting a scholarly focus and engaging with scientific literature.
• Choosing appropriate methodologies aligned with values and resources.
• Developing writing and statistical skills.
• Actively sharing scholarly work with peers.

Main Results:

• The paper outlines a framework for behavioral scientists to contribute to Family Medicine scholarship.
• It emphasizes practical steps for engaging in scholarly activities.
• Success is predicated on collaboration, continuous learning, and dissemination.

Conclusions:

• Behavioral science professionals are vital to the ongoing evolution of Family Medicine.
• Active participation in scholarship is essential for advancing patient care and professional practice.
• A collaborative and open approach to sharing knowledge will drive future innovations.