Intrinsic Gratitude's Impact on Professional Trajectory: A Qualitative Interview Study With Palliative Care Team
Hui-Ching Weng1,2, Wei-Shu Lai3, Duan-Rung Chen4
1Institute of Gerontology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City, Taiwan.
Journal of Palliative Care
|March 18, 2025
Summary
Intrinsic gratitude among palliative care clinicians enhances professional resilience and personal well-being. This study highlights its role in preventing burnout and fostering positive community impact.
Area of Science:
- Palliative Care
- Psychology
- Healthcare Professionals
Background:
- Palliative care presents significant emotional demands for clinicians.
- Existing research primarily focuses on extrinsic gratitude's impact on job satisfaction.
- Intrinsic gratitude's role in preventing burnout and supporting clinicians is under-explored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the influence of intrinsic gratitude on palliative care clinicians.
- To assess the impact of intrinsic gratitude on professional development and community benefit.
- To explore the relationship between intrinsic gratitude and resilience in emotionally demanding healthcare settings.
Main Methods:
- Purposive sampling of 23 palliative care professionals from 10 hospitals.
- Focus on full-time staff with at least two years of experience.
- Inclusion of 12 clinicians who spontaneously expressed profound gratitude.
Main Results:
- Twelve clinicians demonstrated resilience despite challenging palliative care work.
- Intrinsic gratitude, particularly towards team members, served as a key support.
- Gratitude's dimensions (empathic engagement, self-elevation, humility) enhanced professional resilience and personal life.
Conclusions:
- This study is the first to focus on clinicians' spontaneous expressions of gratitude.
- Intrinsic gratitude positively impacts clinicians' professional trajectory and personal lives.
- Reflective gratitude practices can empower clinicians, fostering self-coping mechanisms and inner resilience.
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