Abstract
The focus of my paper is the evidence-based teaching of empathy to healthcare students through the critical reading of literary narratives, or stories with qualities of literature. The study reviews the latest evidence on the need for empathy in healthcare, and the connection between clinicians who practice with greater empathy and improved health outcomes. Also reviewed is the latest research on the connection between reading literary narratives and empathy, teaching empathy to healthcare students, my ongoing research on teaching empathy to healthcare students through literary narratives, and a specific curriculum on how to teach empathy. This provides an understanding of 1) the power of empathy to improve healthcare, 2) the connection between reading literary narratives and empathy, and 3) an emerging curriculum demonstrated to improve empathic awareness in healthcare students. My recent study of a graduate level occupational therapy class demonstrates a statistically significant improvement in student empathy levels, comparing pre to post class levels. I also review stories read during the class, and the types of homework and class activities used with students in the class.
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Empathy, Literature, Stories, Healthcare Outcomes, Consilience, Medical Humanities
