Guide the way: Tutored reflection facilitates professional identity formation.

COGNITION; EMOTIONS; EMPATHY; EXPERIENCE; INTERNSHIP programs; MEDICAL schools; MENTORING; PROFESSIONAL employee training; REFLECTION (Philosophy); PSYCHOLOGICAL resilience; STUDENTS; COMPASSION; PROFESSIONAL identity; EDUCATION

The authors discuss a report on the significance of reflective writing by medical students in the formation of a professional identity and the longevity of the process. Topics mentioned include the part played by role models and mentors in the reflective process, the role of a mentor in assisting the emotional development of students and helping to understand moments of cognitive disequilibrium, and attributes that make for a good mentor.