When doctors experience their vulnerability as beneficial for the patients: a focus-group study from general practice.
OBJECTIVE
To describe events where doctors have experienced that their own sense of vulnerability might have been beneficial for the patient.


METHODS
Qualitative focus group study with data drawn from two group sessions. Analysis was conducted with systematic text condensation.


METHODS
A total of 12 GPs (five men and seven women) aged 30-68 participated. Their clinical experience ranged from one to 39 years.


METHODS
Analysis presented different aspects of participants' experiences of vulnerability experienced as beneficial.


RESULTS
The participants generously shared stories about personal and professional vulnerability which they had perceived and sometimes disclosed to the patient. One cluster of stories dealt with situations where the doctors in some way or other had identified with the patient and his or her problem. They felt that their awareness and capacity for interpretation, creative solutions, and compassion had been enhanced through recognition. Another cluster of stories covered events where uncomfortable feelings due to uncertainty or inconsiderate behaviour sharpened the doctors' reflexivity towards their own roles in the interaction. Presenting an excuse or sharing the doubt could break the ice and make a difference.


CONCLUSIONS
Vulnerability may bring strength, but must be used with caution. Our study opens towards further awareness of the vulnerability of the doctor and how it can benefit the patient in some situations.
Malterud
Kirsti
K
Research Unit for General Practice, Unifob Health, Bergen, Norway. kirsti.malterud@isf.uib.no
Fredriksen
Lise
L
Gjerde
Mette Haukaas
MH
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D006801:Humans; D007062:Identification, Psychological; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010819:Physician's Role; D010817:Physician-Patient Relations; D012309:Risk-Taking; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires