Medical Students ’ Efforts to Integrate and/or Reclaim Authentic Identity: Insights from a Mask-Making Exercise

AbstractMedical students ’ mask-making can provide valuable insights into personal and professional identity formation and wellness. A subset of first- and second-year medical students attending a medical school wellness retreat participated in a mask-making workshop. Faculty-student teams examined student masks and expla natory narratives using visual and textual analysis techniques. A quantitative survey assessed student perceptions of the experience. We identified an overarching theme: “Reconciliation/reclamation of authentic identity.” The combination of nonverbal mask-making and narrative offers rich insight s into medical students’ experience and thinking. This activity promoted reflection and self-care, while providing insight regarding personal and professional development.
Source: Journal of Medical Humanities - Category: Medical Ethics Source Type: research