Related Experiment Videos
'Two hats can be hard to wear'
1Department of Community Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne.
Australian Family Physician
|October 1, 1993
Summary
A physician balances her roles as a mother to a child with a disability and a doctor. This dual identity presents unique challenges and requires careful navigation in professional and personal life.
Area of Science:
- Medical Ethics
- Parenting Studies
- Disability Advocacy
Background:
- Physicians often face complex personal and professional identities.
- The intersection of personal experience and medical practice can be profound.
- Caregiving roles can significantly impact a physician's perspective and well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the lived experience of a physician who is also a parent of a child with a disability.
- To examine the integration and potential conflicts between the 'mother' and 'doctor' roles.
- To reflect on how personal experiences shape professional identity and practice.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative narrative reflection.
- Autoethnographic approach.
- Exploration of personal identity and professional roles.
Main Results:
- The maternal role is an intrinsic and inseparable part of the physician's identity.
- The professional 'doctor hat' can be a protective but also obscuring tool.
- Navigating dual roles involves emotional challenges and potential professional "stumbles".
Conclusions:
- The integration of personal and professional identities is crucial for physician well-being.
- Understanding the impact of lived experience on medical practice is essential.
- Support systems are vital for physicians managing demanding caregiving responsibilities.