Decline of medical student idealism in the first and second year of medical school: a survey of pre-clinical medical students at one institution

摘要: Background : Idealism declines in medical students over the course of training, with some studies identifying beginning decline year 3 US curricula. Purposes This study tested hypothesis that a student idealism is detectable first two years school. Methods We sought to identify differences survey responses between first-year (MS1) and second-year (MS2) at (T1) end (T2) academic 2010 on three proxies for idealism, including items asking about: (a) motivations pursuing career; (b) specialty choice; (c) attitudes toward primary care. Principle component analysis was used extract linear composite variables (LCVs) from each group questions; regression then test effect LCV, controlling race, ethnicity, rural or urban origins, gender, marital status. Results MS2s placed more emphasis status/income concerns ( β =0.153, p <0.001), much less as motivator =−0.081, =0.054), likely consider lifestyle family considerations =0.098, =0.023), idealistic =−0.066, =NS); were endorse both negative/antagonistic =0.122, =0.004) negative/sympathetic =0.126, Conclusions The results are suggestive begins earlier than noted other studies, implying need curricular interventions Keywords: students; idealism; surveys; career choice (Published: 21 August 2013) Citation: Med Educ Online 2013, 18 21194 - http://dx.doi.org/10.3402/meo.v18i0.21194