Opportunities for further progress of sociological studies about doctors and medical students

Abstract

The fundamental purpose of sociological studies is to explore social problems which should be also in focus when examining doctors and medical students. In addition to fact findings, published reports may raise awareness toward these issues. The authors formulate a possible change of the research approach exploring possibilities to move forward with special focus on the health status among doctors, the role-conflict among female doctors and the professional socialisation among medical students. Secondary analysis of published studies among health care professionals. Almost all published papers convey the conflict of being a physician in some aspect, but they fail to explore issues related to professional success, protective factors, resources and conflict management modes. In addition to exploration of risk factors, future studies should promote medical identity, should call attention to existing positive examples and should provide hints to cope with challenging issues in order to achieve a successful medical career.