Does GPs' self-perception of their professional role correspond to their social self-image? - A qualitative study from Germany

Abstract

BackgroundThere is a decline in the relative numbers of general practitioners in Germany. Earlier research showed that the professional relationship between general practitioners and specialists is overshadowed by conflicts which could influence medical students not to choose a career in general practice. The aim of the study is to analyse potential discrepancies between general practitioners' self-perception of their professional role and their social self-image in relation to medical specialists and to identify potential barriers that might prevent medical students from becoming a general practitioner.MethodsA qualitative study design consisting of 16 interviews with general practitioners was chosen. Data analysis was carried out using the qualitative content analysis by Philipp Mayring.ResultsThere is a discrepancy between general practitioners' professional self-perception and how they perceive they are viewed by specialists. General practitioners communicate a positive self-perception of their professional role. While general practitioners think that specialists in outpatient care have a positive view on general practice, it is assessed to be negative by specialists working in hospitals and as medical teachers.ConclusionThe negatively influenced social self-image may originate particularly from "badmouthing" general practitioners at universities and in hospitals. "Badmouthing" demonstrates the importance of the consideration of psychological aspects in medical teachers and hospital specialists acting as role models. Negative comments should be considered as an important factor in influencing medical students and trainees' career choices. These aspects should be more integrated in future medical education curricula.

Family Doctors Seen through the Eyes of Specialists: A Qualitative Study

“…As of today in Germany there are hardly any studies on whether and how medical professional groups “talk bad” about each other or waste disrespectful remarks towards students about a different group of doctors. In a qualitative study with family doctors some of the interviewees reported about experiences, according to which specialists who work as teacher in a medical faculty or in postgraduate training, convey a negative image of family doctors to students [3, 4]. …”

Die Arbeitszufriedenheit von Allgemeinmedizinern

“…Vielmehr wird analysiert, weshalb die hausärzt-liche Tätigkeit durch einen Attraktivitätsverlust charakterisiert ist und von anderen Professionen eher negativ wahrgenommen wird [5,6]. Dieser wichtige Aspekt kann durch die Analyse der Arbeitszufriedenheit ergänzt werden, um sich dem Berufsfeld des Allgemeinmediziners zu nähern.…”

The image of general practice: the revolution begins

“…This negative image may originate from criticism about GPs in universities and in hospitals. 1,3 Role models are important influences on students' perceptions. 3 Appearance strongly influences other people's perception of you.…”

“…1,3 Role models are important influences on students' perceptions. 3 Appearance strongly influences other people's perception of you. The principal purpose of public relations is to promote a positive image, so having a professional image is important for medical practice to remain competitive.…”