Characteristics of experienced natural therapists

Date

2012

Authors

Dellmann, T.
Lushington, K.

Editors

Advisors

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Type:

Journal article

Citation

Journal of the Australian Traditional-Medicine Society, 2012; 18(2):95-100

Statement of Responsibility

Conference Name

Abstract

Sutherland and Ritenbaugh, in a convincing editorial, proposed to conduct research into the effects of practitioner factors on therapeutic outcomes in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). The authors suggested research into several aspects of the practitioner including spiritual development, understanding of disease, healing intent, and other personality characteristics. DiMateo et al. reported that research into practitioner personality characteristics is generally rare in medicine, because of the complexity involved in collecting information about physicians and their practices, and linking such data to treatment outcomes. Some research examined motives and personal characteristics that health care professionals themselves value. Vaglum, Wiers-Jenssen, and Ekeberg identified empathy and person-oriented motives to be the most important motivations of medical students. Similarly, Engebretson reported that patient-centred care was at the core of the nursing profession, expressed in the desire to unite head and heart with intent to heal. Chiropractic students were found to also place a high value on work fulfilment and successful interpersonal relations with patients. Professional self-confidence was another personal trait characterizing final year medical students. Beagan, in interviews with 25 third-year students and 23 medical school faculty members, described a process where medical students begin playing a role that becomes more real as responses from others confirm their new identity.

School/Discipline

Dissertation Note

Provenance

Description

Access Status

Rights

Copyright 2012 Australian Traditional-Medicine Society

License

Grant ID

Published Version

Call number

Persistent link to this record