Professional Identity Formation of Medical Educators: A Thematic Analysis of Enabling Factors and Competencies Needed

CONTEXT: Process of identity formation in any profession is a unique journey and is influenced by many internal and external factors. The factors which enable the development of professional identity of medical educators have been sparsely studied. AIM: The aim of this study was to identify the factors which influence the professional identity formation (PIF) of medical educators and the competencies needed to develop such identity, through their self-reflection. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A descriptive exploratory study was designed and executed through self-administered Google Forms having open-ended questions. Themes were generated and concept map was designed. RESULTS: Internal zeal, mentoring, networking, self-directed learning, supportive workplace environment, and recognition at the workplace were some of the subthemes generated as influencing factors enabling PIF as a medical educator. Some of the competencies reported were subject knowledge, leadership skills, self-directed learning, and ability to carry out educational scholarship projects. CONCLUSION: The study elucidates various factors influencing PIF of medical educators, as reflected by medical educators themselves. Institutional policies can be framed accordingly to facilitate the process of PIF of medical educators.