Abstract
Abstract: Introduction: The occurrence of abuse, harassment and mistreatment of medical students is a widespread phenomenon and not a problem limited to certain countries or particular schools. Such behavior during medical training creates hostile learning environments, induces stress, depressive symptoms, may impair performance and patient care. Objective: To analyze the methodology used in recent studies to describe the consequences of mistreatment on medical student’s life and academic performance. Method: A brief review of the literature indexed in 6 international databases was carried out (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, SciELO, PsycINFO and Cochrane Library). The descriptors were categorized into two groups, one containing different types of violence and the other contemplating the studied population. Results: A total of 20 articles were selected for this study and all of them based their research methodology on the use of questionnaires, scales and/or interviews. The strengths and weaknesses of these methodologies were discussed, and the use of simulation was suggested as a new methodological alternative. Conclusion: This review reinforces that mistreatment of medical students has remained frequent over time and it is closely related to the students’ mental health and performance impairment. The authors recommend a new methodological approach to collect data related to the effects arising from a hostile learning environment.
Highlights
The occurrence of abuse, harassment and mistreatment of medical students is a widespread phenomenon and not a problem limited to certain countries or particular schools
Based on 3 important considerations, it is clear that a new approach is needed to study the impact of a hostile learning environment on students: 1. The prevalence indicated in the majority of the studies continue to show worryingly high rates of mistreatment of medical students; 2
This review allowed the identification of some methodological weaknesses of studies carried out in area to date
Summary
The occurrence of abuse, harassment and mistreatment of medical students is a widespread phenomenon and not a problem limited to certain countries or particular schools. Such behavior during medical training creates hostile learning environments, induces stress, depressive symptoms, may impair performance and patient care. A metaanalysis carried out in 2014, including 59 studies, reported that the combined prevalence of harassment and discrimination of medical students was about 59.6%7. Students who have been victims of mistreatment, belittlement, harassment, or bullying report a loss in their relationship with teachers, are more dissatisfied with their professional choice, and more frequently consider dropping out of the course, feeling more stressed and depressed
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