Crying in the Curriculum

The Physician’s Tears: Experiences and Attitudes of Crying Among Physicians and Medical Interns

“…In all studies, approximately half of the participants reportedly ever cried in their work setting. Remarkably, the results found in medical interns show considerably more variation (ranging between 31% and 73%) (Angoff, 2001; Barth et al, 2004; Kukulu & Keser, 2006; Sung et al, 2009; Wagner et al, 1997), with our finding in between, very comparable to the physicians. Crying in front of a patient occurred less often, in particular among medical interns, whereas the crying in both groups was comparable when it concerned crying in general and crying in the work setting.…”

“…Compared to earlier research (Angoff, 2001; Barth et al, 2004; Kukulu & Keser, 2006; Sung et al, 2009; Wagner et al, 1997), we see some striking correspondences in results on the frequency of crying among physicians. In all studies, approximately half of the participants reportedly ever cried in their work setting.…”

Medical Students’ Experience of a Patient’s Death and Their Coping Strategies: A Narrative Literature Review

“…10 They may therefore be exposed to a higher risk of distress and burnout, 51 and more frequently become cynical physicians. 52…”

‘You Also Have to Let People Go’—Effects of Formative Experiences with Dying and Death on Medical Trainees’ Attitudes

“…In contradiction to this finding, our interviewees found it perfectly legitimate for physicians to feel emotions themselves. However, they agreed that it is 'not the task' of physician to express feelings excessively [31]. The importance of keeping in control in order to 'stay functional' was outlined.…”