In this thesis, Indah Kiay Demak investigated the factors that influence how undergraduate medical students develop their professional identity, meaning how they come to see themselves as future doctors. It explored the roles of participation in learning and clinical settings, a sense of belonging, and reflection on educational and clinical experiences.
Kiay Demak found that professional identity formation is strongly influenced by three interconnected factors. First, students develop a stronger professional identity when they actively participate in authentic clinical and learning activities. Second, feeling accepted, valued, and included by peers, teachers, and healthcare teams strengthens students’ sense of belonging and supports their development. Third, reflection helps students make sense of meaningful experiences and incorporate them into their understanding of what it means to be a doctor.
This research is relevant because medical education aims not only to develop knowledge and clinical skills but also to support students in becoming competent and professional physicians. The findings suggest that medical schools can better facilitate this process by creating inclusive learning environments, encouraging meaningful participation, and supporting reflective practice.
Overall, the study concludes that becoming a doctor is not simply a matter of acquiring knowledge. Professional identity develops through participation in professional communities, a sense of belonging, and reflection on experience throughout medical training.
Find the full thesis here: Factors influencing professional identity formation among undergraduate medical students
