A practical framework for remediating unprofessional behavior and for developing professionalism competencies and a professional identity

AbstractThe relatively new term “Professional Identity Formation” (PIF) complements behavior-based and attitude-based perspectives on professionalism. Unprofessional behavior and its remediation should also be addressed from this perspective. However, a framework is needed to guide discussion and remediation of unprofessional behavior, which can encompass behavior-based, attitude-based, and identity-based perspectives on professionalism. To this end, the authors propose a multi-level professionalism framework which describes, apart from professional behavior, more levels which influence professional performance: environment, competencies, beliefs, values, identity, and mission. The different levels can provide tools for educators to address and discuss unprofessional behavior with their students in a comprehensive way. By reflecting on all the different levels of the framework, educators guard themselves against narrowing the discussion to either professional behavior or professional identity. The multi-l...