The midwife-student mentor relationship: Creating the virtuous circle
A Sheehan1, R Elmir1, A Hammond1
1School of Nursing and Midwifery, Parramatta South Campus, Western Sydney University, NSW, Australia.
Women and Birth : Journal of the Australian College of Midwives
|October 27, 2021
Summary
The mentor/mentee relationship in midwifery develops over time through phases of connection and mutual understanding. This leads to a supportive, reciprocal relationship that enhances student confidence and learning.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Nursing and Midwifery
Background:
- Effective mentoring is crucial for student adjustment and learning in clinical settings.
- The development of quality mentor/mentee relationships requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the evolving relationship dynamics between mentors and mentees in a structured midwifery program.
- Investigated the establishment and progression of mentor-mentee connections over a 12-month period.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative interpretive descriptive research design.
- Data collected via focus groups and interviews with midwife mentors (n=31) and student mentees (n=24).
- Thematic analysis with inductive approach and constant comparison.
Main Results:
- Identified three overarching themes: 'The great unknown', 'Building the relationship', and 'The virtuous circle'.
- Sub-themes included 'trying to connect', 'becoming known', and 'an insider on your side'.
- The 'virtuous circle' theme highlighted reciprocal benefits and relationship development.
Conclusions:
- Mentor/mentee relationships mature through distinct phases, requiring time and effort.
- Positive relationships reduce hierarchy, boost student confidence, and foster learning.
- Successful midwifery mentoring mirrors the continuity of care model, built on respect and partnership.
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