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A tool to assess Professional Identity Formation in general practice - A pilot with German GP trainees
Simon Schwill1, Michaela Trompke2, Pauline Scharli1
1Department of General Practice and Health Services Research, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
Summary
The Leach instrument effectively measures professional identity formation (PIF) in general practice (GP) trainees, showing high internal consistency and correlations between key dimensions. This tool aids in quantifying PIF to improve physician retention.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education Research
- Psychology of Professions
- General Practice Training
Background:
- Professional Identity Formation (PIF) is crucial for physician wellbeing and job satisfaction.
- Strengthening PIF in general practice (GP) is vital for addressing physician shortages and improving retention.
- Validated tools for measuring PIF are scarce, posing a challenge for research and intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the German version of the Leach instrument, a tool assessing in-group identification, as a correlate for PIF in GP trainees.
- To determine the reliability and validity of the Leach instrument in the context of general practice training.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional online survey was conducted with 117 GP trainees in 2025.
- The questionnaire included the German version of the Leach instrument (15 items), sociodemographic data, and open-ended questions.
- Data were analyzed descriptively, semi-quantitatively, and based on the instrument's specifications.
Main Results:
- The Leach instrument demonstrated high quality and internal consistency across its dimensions (self-investment, self-definition) and subscales.
- High levels of solidarity and satisfaction were reported among GP trainees.
- Significant correlations were found between centrality and satisfaction, centrality and stereotyping, and self-investment and self-definition.
Conclusions:
- The German version of the Leach instrument is a valid and reliable tool for measuring PIF in GP trainees.
- This instrument allows for quantification of PIF at various training stages, facilitating research into influencing factors and longitudinal changes.
- Further development of specific measures for different educational levels is recommended to accelerate PIF in general practice.