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Articles

Teaching suffering: The testimonial-commentary method

, , , , &
Pages 629-635 | Received 16 Aug 2011, Accepted 19 Dec 2011, Published online: 07 Feb 2012
 

Abstract

Attempts to define professionalism and humanism suggest that qualities such as compliance to values, patient access, doctor–patient relationship, demeanor, professional management, personal awareness, and motivation are prominent thematic components. In this communication, we present a method for instruction in the values of humanism that may help to overcome the “curricular inertia that plagues medical education.” Our approach is structured around a technique of testimonial-commentary as a novel approach to teaching humanism that does not rely upon the traditional role-modeling format. To develop effective medical school curricula for teaching humanism, we cannot rely upon the textbooks of normal and abnormal human anatomy and physiology. We must delve into the “unscientific” realms of human identity ranging from sensuality to brutality: self-preservation to sacrifice. Underneath it all, we must acknowledge that there are the ties that bind us together as people. The Seminar on Human Suffering challenges medical school educators to work with the community at large to insure that physicians will be able to serve those that seek their counsel.

Acknowledgment

The SOHS was funded by an educational grant from the George Washington University Graduate Studies and Academic Affairs office.

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